What Is Asherman’s Syndrome?
Asherman’s Syndrome is a rare but serious condition where scar tissue (also called adhesions) forms inside the uterus. These intrauterine adhesions can cause the uterine walls to stick together, affecting menstrual cycles and, importantly, fertility. The condition is most often acquired after uterine surgery, such as a dilation and curettage (D&C), especially following a miscarriage or postpartum hemorrhage.
How Asherman’s Syndrome Affects Fertility
The uterine cavity plays a crucial role in implantation and pregnancy. When scar tissue builds up, it can:
- Reduce or block the endometrial lining from regenerating normally
- Disrupt or prevent implantation of an embryo
- Lead to irregular, light, or absent periods (a clue that something is wrong)
- Increase risk of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or complications in future pregnancies
Asherman’s is often underdiagnosed, especially in people experiencing unexplained infertility or recurrent miscarriage. If you’ve had a D&C or uterine surgery and are now struggling to conceive or noticing menstrual changes, it’s worth discussing Asherman’s with your provider.
Symptoms to Watch For
While some people have no symptoms, many experience:
- Light or absent periods (amenorrhea or hypomenorrhea)
- Painful periods (due to blood being trapped)
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
- Secondary infertility (difficulty conceiving after a previous pregnancy)
Diagnosing Asherman’s Syndrome
Diagnosis typically requires imaging beyond a standard pelvic exam or ultrasound. These may include
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): A contrast dye X-ray of the uterus and Fallopian tubes
- Sonohysterogram (saline ultrasound): Uses saline to highlight adhesions
- Hysteroscopy: A camera is inserted into the uterus to visualize and diagnose (and often treat) adhesions directly
If your fertility journey includes unexplained complications or abnormal cycles post-surgery, request a referral to a reproductive endocrinologist for further evaluation.
Treatment Options
The gold standard for treating Asherman’s is hysteroscopic surgery, where a specialist removes the adhesions to restore normal uterine shape and function. Post-surgery, additional treatments may include:
- Estrogen therapy to promote endometrial healing
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs) or balloon catheters to prevent the uterine walls from sticking together during recovery
- Antibiotics if infection is present
Recovery success depends on the severity of adhesions. Many people go on to have healthy pregnancies after treatment.
Fertility After Treatment
With proper care, fertility can improve significantly. However, outcomes depend on:
- The extent of adhesions
- How quickly the condition was treated
- Underlying reproductive health
- Age and overall hormone balance
You may be referred to fertility treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) if natural conception is still difficult post-recovery.
How a Fertility Coach Can Support You
If you’ve been diagnosed with Asherman’s or are exploring the possibility, a fertility coach can help you:
- Understand your diagnosis and treatment options
- Navigate emotional stress and uncertainty
- Coordinate with your medical team
- Prepare your body for treatment or conception
- Create a personalized fertility wellness plan
Final Thoughts
While Asherman’s Syndrome can be a difficult diagnosis, it’s not the end of your fertility journey. With early detection, expert treatment, and holistic support, many people successfully go on to conceive and carry healthy pregnancies. Download free “Uterine Health Checklist for TTC” here at https://fertility-nest.com/2024/11/30/free-downloadable-and-printable-worksheets/
Need Support?
Let’s talk. Book a free clarity call to discuss how coaching can support you through diagnosis, treatment, and conception. https://fertility-nest.com/contact-us/