What is an Endometrial Scratch?
Endometrial Scratching is available at Manchester Fertility to both patients who are undergoing treatment with us, and those who are having IVF treatment elsewhere but wish to have the procedure privately before their cycle begins. An Endometrial Scratch is a procedure we may recommend for patients undergoing IVF or ICSI. A doctor or nurse uses a fine instrument to scratch the womb's lining. An Endomitrial Scratch is minimally invasive and takes only 15 to 20 minutes to complete.
It is a simple and quick procedure, with minimal risk of complications, similar to undergoing a smear test. By scratching the endometrial lining, it changes the way it grows back following the procedure.As the uterus heals from the procedure, it produces substances that could promote better development of the lining of the womb. This may make it more receptive to any embryos which are later transferred.
At Manchester Fertility, we will discuss endometrial scratching with you as an option if your IVF cycle fails because the embryo didn’t implant properly, despite it being good quality and all other aspects showing a good prognosis, or if you are using a donor egg. We will advise if endometrial scratching may be suitable for you.
How does Endometrial Scratching work?
The theory behind Endometrial Scratching is that it triggers the body to repair the scratch site, releasing chemicals and hormones that make the womb lining more receptive to embryo implantation.
The Human fertilisation & Embryo Association, or HFEA, provides more information about Endometrial Scratching on its website.
Does an Endometrial Scratch Improve the Chances of a Successful Pregnancy?
We do not know that an Endometrial Scratch increases the chance of having a baby. Although the evidence does not support the routine use of endometrial scratch for women undergoing IVF, your doctor may advise you to undergo the procedure if they believe it would benefit you.
What Are the Risks of an Endometrial Scratch?
We recommend using painkillers, such as ibuprofen, to manage pain post-procedure. You may also wish to take some simple analgesics half an hour to an hour before your procedure. There is a small risk of infection following the procedure, but a member of our team will be able to discuss any concerns surrounding this before your procedure.
Endometrial scratching is just one of the techniques we offer to help increase the chances of IVF success. All embryos developed at Manchester Fertility benefit from EmbryoGlue, a culture solution which helps embryos adhere to the uterus, and Blastocyst transfer if your embryos are suitable. At Manchester Fertility, these services are provided free of charge, there is no extra cost to pay for EmbryoGlue or Blastocyst transfer.
At Manchester Fertility, we do charge for an Endometrial Scratch as it is an optional add-on. Add-ons are extras that we offer in addition to your fertility treatment; these may incur an additional cost. Your doctor will be able to provide you with the complete information and risk associated with any of these add-ons. We offer these add-ons after a discussion with our experts and after your specific individual circumstances have been considered. We fully support the HFEA’s view on all add-ons, please see here for more information.
If you’re interested in endometrial scratching, it is best to discuss your options with our expert team. Contact us today on 0161 300 2737 or book your consultation online through our website.
Last updated: 13th September 2022
