Endometrial Scratch

Endometrial scratching is a simple process in which a reproductive endocrinologist (RE) takes a small bit of uterine lining (endometrium) using a thin tube called a catheter. This creates a slight “scratch” in the endometrium that can help implantation of transferred embryos. This is generally recommended for couples with multiple failed transfers.[1]

However, some doctors do not believe in this technique as current studies show that it does not improve birth rate very much.[2][3] Others will still perform the treatment or suggest it after multiple failures.[4]

Ask your doctor if endometrial scratching can help your case.

[1] Kho, Min. 2016. “Endometrial Scratch & IVF Success.” Melbourne IVF. 2016. https://blog.ivf.com.au/endometrial-scratching-ivf-success.

[2] Gibreel, Ahmed, Ahmed Badawy, Waleed El-Refai, and Noha El-Adawi. 2013. “Endometrial Scratching to Improve Pregnancy Rate in Couples with Unexplained Subfertility: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research 39 (3). Wiley/Blackwell (10.1111): 680–84. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1447-0756.2012.02016.x.

[3] Gibreel, Ahmed, Noha El-Adawi, Eman Elgindy, Hesham Al-Inany, Nasser Allakany, and Herman Tournaye. 2015. “Endometrial Scratching for Women with Previous IVF Failure Undergoing IVF Treatment.” Gynecological Endocrinology 31 (4). Informa Healthcare: 313–16. https://doi.org/10.3109/09513590.2014.994603.

[4] European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. 2016. “Endometrial Scratch Appears Beneficial in Couples Trying to Conceive.” ScienceDaily. 2016. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/07/160704082720.htm.