When you are trying to become a mother through assisted reproduction, you come across many new terms—especially those related to the specific reason why you may not be able to conceive naturally. Some are well-known, such as endometriosis or immune-related issues, while others are less familiar, like Asherman’s Syndrome.
This blog will focus on the latter. So, if you’ve never heard of this syndrome before, or if it’s the reason behind your difficulty in conceiving, remember: you are not alone. Here, we explain what it is and how it can be treated to increase your chances of fulfilling the dream of becoming a mother.
What is Asherman’s Syndrome?
Asherman’s Syndrome refers to the condition in which adhesions or scar tissue form inside the uterus, specifically within the uterine cavity. These lesions, adhesions, and/or scars can cause deformation or narrowing of the uterine walls, leading to menstrual problems, difficulties in maintaining a pregnancy, or even infertility.
Although it can be mild, moderate, or severe depending on its extent, obtaining a proper diagnosis is essential to achieving the desired pregnancy. Even though this condition is rare and not widely known, it can be decisive, which is why it’s important to pay close attention to the details of this syndrome.
Symptoms and Warning Signs
Asherman’s Syndrome can develop for different reasons. It may be caused by uterine infections, after a dilation and curettage (D&C), or due to uterine surgeries.
As a result, women trying to get pregnant may experience difficulties conceiving. When the time comes to pursue this decision, there can be underlying factors that prevent the pregnancy from progressing. To detect whether there are risks of this syndrome, some of the symptoms that may appear include:
- Changes in menstruation: light periods or absence of periods.
- Pelvic pain of varying intensity.
- Difficulty getting pregnant.
- Recurrent miscarriages.
Diagnosis of Asherman’s Syndrome
If you experience one or more of the symptoms mentioned above, it is recommended to consult a specialized professional, in this case a gynecologist, to carry out a diagnosis and assess possible solutions.
Among the necessary tests, after the patient’s medical history is reviewed to evaluate whether this condition is present, the following stand out:
-Ultrasound. A transvaginal ultrasound will be performed. Simple and non-invasive, this test can help diagnose the problem, although it may sometimes be insufficient to detect it.
-Hysterosalpingography (HSG). An imaging test with contrast to examine the uterine morphology. With this test, it becomes easier to detect possible adhesions or polyps.
-Hysteroscopy. A camera is introduced into the uterine cavity to observe it directly, locate the suspected lesion, and repair it through hysteroscopy if necessary.
Consequences of the Syndrome
Among the most common consequences of Asherman’s Syndrome is the difficulty of embryo implantation, due to the adhesions or scar tissue that deform the uterus. It can also lead to implantation failures or possible recurrent miscarriages.
All these challenges, which often cause frustration for patients, can be minimized if identified and treated early, offering a good prognosis with the right treatment.
Available Treatments to Reduce This Condition
To reduce the impact caused by this condition, there are several treatments that can improve the uterus and therefore make it easier to increase the chances of getting pregnant.
– Minimally invasive surgery to remove adhesions so that the uterus regains its normal shape and size. It is important that, after this procedure, the uterine cavity remains expanded to prevent the recurrence of lesions. Medication can also be used during hysteroscopy to help reduce the chances of recurrence.
– Hormonal treatments with estrogens to regenerate the endometrium.
For follow-up and monitoring, the doctor will carry out regular and more thorough check-ups.
A Message for Patients with Asherman’s Syndrome
At Ovoclinic, we understand that conditions such as Asherman’s Syndrome and its consequences can bring feelings of frustration and despair. This is normal. Take your time to process and understand this condition, and seek a specialized professional as soon as possible if you experience symptoms like those described above.
Above all, don’t be too hard on yourself. You are not the only one, and unfortunately, not the last. Fortunately, with an early diagnosis, these lesions can be minimized as much as possible, allowing pregnancy to be achieved successfully.
That’s why we encourage you not to give up, to keep moving forward—no matter how hard or complicated the journey may be—and to reach the greatest dream life can offer: conceiving your baby.
