Endometrial Health and Implantation: How Removing Polyps or Fibroids Improves IVF Success

Endometrial Health and Implantation: How Removing Polyps or Fibroids Improves IVF Success

A receptive uterine lining is a cornerstone of fertility. Even with high-quality embryos, implantation may fail if the endometrium is not optimal. Conditions such as endometrial polyps and fibroids can disrupt this delicate environment, impacting the chances of a successful pregnancy. Understanding these factors—and addressing them when needed—can play a significant role in IVF outcomes.

Understanding the Endometrium and Fertility

The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus where an embryo attaches and begins development. Its health is influenced by thickness, blood supply, and hormonal signaling.

• Polyps: Benign growths of the endometrial tissue that may interfere with embryo attachment (ASRM).
• Fibroids: Noncancerous uterine tumors. Submucosal fibroids, which protrude into the uterine cavity, are most likely to affect implantation.

Even minor abnormalities can reduce implantation rates, making careful evaluation of the uterus an essential part of fertility planning.

How Polyps and Fibroids Affect IVF Success

Polyps and fibroids can impact implantation in several ways:

• Cavity distortion: Abnormal growths can change the shape of the uterine cavity, making embryo attachment more difficult.
• Blood flow disruption: Fibroids may reduce blood supply to the endometrium, affecting embryo nourishment.
• Hormonal and molecular changes: Polyps and fibroids can alter the local uterine environment necessary for implantation.

Clinical studies indicate that removing polyps or submucosal fibroids before IVF improves implantation rates and increases pregnancy success (Fertility and Sterility, PMC).

Treatment Options: Minimally Invasive Solutions

Hysteroscopic removal is the standard approach for treating polyps and certain fibroids. This procedure allows specialists to:

• Directly view the uterine cavity.
• Remove abnormalities while preserving healthy endometrial tissue.
• Perform the treatment on an outpatient basis with quick recovery.

By addressing uterine issues prior to IVF, patients can enter their cycles with a healthier, more receptive endometrium.

Optimizing Your IVF Cycle

A thorough uterine evaluation is a critical step for patients preparing for IVF. Even small interventions, such as removing a single polyp, can significantly improve outcomes. Personalized assessment ensures the treatment plan aligns with each patient’s reproductive history and fertility goals.

Taking Charge of Your Fertility Health

Endometrial health is a vital component of a successful IVF journey. If you’ve experienced recurrent implantation failure, unexplained infertility, or abnormal uterine findings, a detailed uterine evaluation may provide valuable insights.

At University Reproductive Associates, we create personalized fertility plans that consider every aspect of reproductive health—including uterine evaluation, minimally invasive treatments, and IVF preparation. Our team works with you to optimize your chances of a healthy pregnancy.

If you’re planning IVF and want to ensure your uterus is ready for implantation, schedule a consultation with URA today to explore tailored strategies for your family-building journey.