With the precision of an Olympian, you’ve synchronized lovemaking to coincide with ovulation. Still no plus sign on the pregnancy test after six to 12 months? It may be time to consult with Texas Fertility Center to explore either non-invasive or minimally invasive surgical options for overcoming infertility.

While most couples will not need fertility surgery, some conditions require it.

Who may need fertility surgery?

1. Women with blocked, damaged or diseased fallopian tubes (see our blog on hydrosalpinx). A dysfunctional tube can prevent the egg and sperm from getting together, or the fertilized egg from making it to the uterus.

2. Women with endometriosis, ovarian cysts, scar tissue in the pelvis, uterine polyps, or fibroid tumors.

3. Men with varicoceles or blockages in the male reproductive tract (these surgeries are performed by a urologist).

How are these conditions diagnosed?

A pelvic ultrasound (sonogram) or an x-ray test called a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) will bring to light most anatomical problems that will need surgical intervention.

3 common types of fertility surgery

Fertility surgery can correct physical barriers to getting pregnant, and is usually covered by insurance. Three common approaches include:

1. Minimally-invasive operative hysteroscopy (involving a surgical telescope inserted vaginally under light sedation).

2. Minimally-invasive laparoscopic surgery (involving a surgical telescope inserted through several small abdominal incisions under general anesthesia). These procedures can also be performed with the use of a robot through similar incisions.

3. Abdominal laparotomy (surgery involving a 2-3 inch bikini line or abdominal incision under general anesthesia)

Patients undergoing hysteroscopy and/or laparoscopy go home a few hours after the procedure, while patients who have a laparotomy may stay overnight in the surgery center or hospital.

Why two extra letters matter when choosing a fertility surgeon.

Reproductive endocrinologists (REs) are physicians who completed an additional 2-3 year fellowship in the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and reconstructive pelvic surgery after their OB/GYN residency. REs are trained to treat both men and women.

The board certified REs at Texas Fertility Center prioritize two goals when performing delicate fertility surgery: repair the problem and conserve future fertility. Receiving care from surgeons who have advanced specialized training in microsurgical techniques and assisted reproductive technology can impact the immediate and long-term success of your fertility surgery.

To find out more about surgical management of infertility, contact the specialists at Texas Fertility Center.