Infertility After Ovarian Surgery and Treatment Options
Surgical procedures performed on the ovaries or fallopian tubes to treat conditions such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, tubal blockage, and ovarian cancer may lead to infertility. This may occur because surgery can negatively affect ovarian reserve, egg quality, or damage the fallopian tubes.
To evaluate the effect of ovarian surgery on infertility;
How Is the Impact of Ovarian Surgery on Infertility Evaluated?
Ovarian reserve tests:
Antral follicle count (AFC), Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), and basal Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels are used to assess ovarian reserve.
Fallopian tube evaluation:
Tests used to determine whether the fallopian tubes are open include hysterosalpingography (HSG) and laparoscopy.
Pregnancy Chances in Women With a History of Ovarian Surgery
The chance of pregnancy in women who have undergone ovarian surgery varies depending on the type of surgery, ovarian reserve, and other individual factors.
Surgery for ovarian cysts:
Surgical treatment for ovarian cysts usually does not cause infertility. However, it should be kept in mind that any surgical procedure may increase intra-abdominal adhesions, and any intervention on the ovaries may reduce ovarian reserve.
Surgery for endometriosis:
Surgery for endometriosis may adversely affect ovarian reserve and egg quality. However, it should also be noted that endometriosis itself reduces ovarian reserve. If surgery is considered beneficial for the patient, it should not be avoided when necessary.
Surgery for tubal blockage:
Surgery performed for tubal blockage may increase the chances of pregnancy by restoring tubal patency.
Surgery for ovarian cancer:
Surgery for ovarian cancer may result in loss of ovarian tissue.
Treatment Options for Women Who Have Undergone Ovarian Surgery
To increase the chances of pregnancy in women who have undergone ovarian surgery, the following treatment options may be considered:
Ovulation induction:
Hormonal treatments may be used to stimulate ovulation.
In vitro fertilization (IVF):
IVF treatment involves fertilizing eggs in a laboratory setting and transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus.
Previous ovarian surgery may lead to infertility; however, pregnancy chances can be increased with appropriate treatment options.
Important Information
Women with poor egg quality have a lower chance of pregnancy after ovarian surgery.
Women with blocked fallopian tubes may have a higher chance of pregnancy after ovarian surgery.