What is Hysteroscopy, and How is it Used in Infertility Evaluation and Treatment?

Dr. Marika Raff • December 2, 2024

At Caperton Fertility Institute, we know that every step of your fertility journey matters. Whether you're in the early stages of evaluation or exploring advanced treatments, understanding the tools and techniques we use can help you feel empowered and informed. One of the essential procedures we use in both diagnosing and treating infertility is called hysteroscopy.

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Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive technique that allows us to see directly inside the uterus to identify and, in many cases, treat issues that could be impacting your fertility. If you've been recommended for a hysteroscopy, or if you're curious about how it supports fertility care, here’s everything you need to know.

What is Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy involves inserting a thin, lighted camera (called a hysteroscope) through the cervix and into the uterus. This allows us to directly visualize the uterine cavity in real-time, providing detailed insights into its health and structure.

The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and may be diagnostic(to examine the uterus for abnormalities) or operative(to treat issues identified during the evaluation). Read more about the role of hysteroscopy in fertility therapy.

How is Hysteroscopy Used in Infertility Evaluation?

The uterine cavity plays a critical role in conception and pregnancy. An irregularly shaped uterus or certain abnormalities within the uterine cavity can interfere with embryo implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. Hysteroscopy allows us to investigate and address these issues. Learn how hysteroscopy improves reproductive outcomes in infertile couples.

1. Diagnosing Uterine Abnormalities

Hysteroscopy provides a clear view of the uterine cavity, helping detect structural abnormalities or conditions such as:

  • Polyps: Overgrowths of the endometrial lining that may interfere with implantation.
  • Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can distort the uterine cavity or block the fallopian tubes.
  • Adhesions (Asherman’s Syndrome): Scar tissue in the uterus that prevents the uterine lining from developing properly, impacting implantation.
  • Septum or Congenital Uterine Abnormalities: A division in the uterus caused by incomplete development during embryogenesis, increasing the risk of miscarriage or infertility.
  • Chronic Endometritis: Inflammation of the uterine lining, often caused by infection, which may prevent a healthy pregnancy.

Explore the role of hysteroscopy in diagnosing uterine abnormalities.

2. Investigating Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

If you’ve experienced recurrent miscarriages, hysteroscopy can uncover uterine factors contributing to pregnancy loss. By addressing these issues, we optimize the uterine environment for future pregnancies.

3. Enhancing Fertility Treatment Success

Before undergoing treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF), ensuring a healthy uterine cavity is crucial. Hysteroscopy allows us to identify and treat issues that could negatively affect embryo implantation during IVF. Understand the evidence supporting hysteroscopic surgery in fertility care.

What to Expect During a Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is a safe and straightforward procedure. Here’s what you can typically expect:

Before the Procedure

You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for several hours beforehand, especially if sedation or anesthesia is required.

During the Procedure

A hysteroscopy can be performed in the office. You can choose to remain awake or receive moderate sedation. The hysteroscope is gently inserted through the cervix into the uterus, and saline is used to expand the uterine cavity for better visualization.

After the Procedure

Most patients return home the same day and resume normal activities within 24-48 hours. Mild cramping or spotting is common for a day or two. Review a study on reproductive outcomes after hysteroscopy.

Why Hysteroscopy is Important in Fertility Care

At Caperton Fertility Institute, we use the latest technologies to give our patients the best possible outcomes. Hysteroscopy is a cornerstone of modern fertility care because it allows us to precisely identify and correct issues impacting your ability to conceive.

For many patients, addressing uterine abnormalities through hysteroscopy improves their chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy—whether naturally or with assisted reproductive techniques like IVF.

Dr. Marika Raff is a board-certified fertility specialist at Caperton Fertility Institute, where she helps individuals and couples overcome fertility challenges with state-of-the-art treatments and compassionate care.

Understanding Fibroids and Fertility

By Dr. Lee Caperton • October 7, 2025
Uterine fibroids are a common diagnosis among women of reproductive age. While many fibroids are harmless and cause no symptoms, others can interfere with fertility and pregnancy. At Caperton Fertility Institute , we help patients understand how fibroids may affect reproductive health and provide personalized treatment options to optimize fertility outcomes. What Are Uterine Fibroids? Fibroids, also known as leiomyomas , are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or on the uterus. They can vary greatly in size, number, and location. Depending on where they form, fibroids are classified into several types: Submucosal Fibroids: Grow into the uterine cavity Intramural Fibroids: Develop within the uterine wall Subserosal Fibroids: Form on the outer surface of the uterus Pedunculated Fibroids: Attached by a stalk extending from the uterus How Fibroids Can Affect Fertility Not all fibroids impact fertility. However, certain types and locations are more likely to interfere with conception, implantation, or pregnancy progression. Submucosal Fibroids: These are most likely to affect fertility because they distort the uterine cavity, which can prevent implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. Intramural Fibroids: When large, these fibroids can change the shape of the uterus and affect blood flow, potentially reducing the chances of successful embryo implantation. Tubal Blockage: Fibroids located near the fallopian tubes can obstruct sperm or egg movement, preventing fertilization. Cervical Fibroids: Although rare, fibroids near the cervix can hinder sperm entry into the uterus. Common Symptoms of Fibroids Fibroid symptoms vary widely — some people experience significant discomfort, while others have no symptoms at all. Common signs include: Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding Pelvic pain or pressure Pain during intercourse Frequent urination or constipation Recurrent pregnancy loss or difficulty conceiving For many patients, fibroids are first discovered during a fertility evaluation or routine pelvic exam . Diagnosis and Treatment Options At Caperton Fertility Institute , we use advanced diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound and MRI to assess fibroid size, number, and location. Once diagnosed, treatment is tailored to your fertility goals and overall health. Treatment options include: Medical Management: Hormonal therapies to reduce symptoms and fibroid growth. Surgical Options: Myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus. Minimally Invasive Procedures: Hysteroscopic or laparoscopic surgery for faster recovery and minimal scarring. Our approach is designed to preserve fertility whenever possible while alleviating symptoms and improving uterine health. Hope After a Fibroid Diagnosis A fibroid diagnosis doesn’t mean you can’t conceive. Many patients with fibroids go on to achieve healthy pregnancies — especially with proper evaluation and treatment. At Caperton Fertility Institute , our experienced fertility specialists in Albuquerque, NM , and El Paso, TX , provide compassionate, individualized care for every patient. We’ll guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and the next steps toward achieving your dream of parenthood. ✨ If you suspect fibroids may be affecting your fertility, schedule a consultation today. Let’s take the next step together toward your fertility goals.

Honoring Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month 🤍

By Dr. Marika Raff • October 7, 2025
Every loss is unique. Every story matters. Every life is remembered.
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Egg Donor FAQ

By Dr. Kelly Caperton • September 19, 2025
1. What is egg donation? Egg donation is the process by which a healthy woman donates her eggs to help another individual or couple conceive a child. These eggs may be fertilized through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and implanted into a recipient’s uterus or frozen for future use. 2. Who can become an egg donor? At Caperton Fertility Institute, we welcome egg donors who meet the following criteria: Ages 19–30 Physically and emotionally healthy Non-smoker, non-drug user Regular menstrual cycles No history of genetic or reproductive disorders Willing to undergo medical and psychological screening Able to commit to the time and responsibilities of the donation process 3. Why do people need egg donors? Egg donors help individuals and couples who are unable to conceive using their own eggs due to: Advanced maternal age Genetic conditions Medical treatments like chemotherapy LGBTQ+ family-building Unexplained infertility 4. Is egg donation safe? Yes. Egg donation is a common and generally safe medical process. It involves hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries and a minor outpatient procedure to retrieve the eggs. Risks are low but can include mild discomfort, bloating, or temporary side effects from medication. Serious complications are rare. 5. Will donating affect my fertility? No, egg donation does not impact your long-term fertility. Women are born with thousands of eggs, and donation uses only a small number that would naturally be lost in a normal cycle. 6. Is egg donation painful? Most donors report mild discomfort similar to menstrual cramps. The egg retrieval procedure is done under light sedation, so you won’t feel pain during the process. Recovery typically takes 1–2 days. 7. Will I be compensated? Yes. Caperton Fertility Institute offers generous, ethically guided compensation for your time, effort, and commitment. The amount is discussed during your initial consultation and complies with all legal and medical guidelines. 8. How long is the egg donation process? The process generally takes 6–10 weeks from initial screening to egg retrieval. It includes: Application and screening Medical and psychological evaluations Legal review Hormonal stimulation (approx. 10–14 days) Egg retrieval procedure 9. Can I still work or go to school during the donation process? Yes. Most of the process can be scheduled around your routine. However, you'll need to attend several clinic appointments and take medications on a strict schedule. During the last week, you'll need to reduce physical activity. 10. Will my identity be kept confidential? Absolutely. Donor confidentiality is strictly maintained. You can choose to remain anonymous, open, or semi-open, depending on your preferences and the recipient’s needs. 11. How do I get started? To begin the egg donor application process: Visit our Portal Fill out a questionnaire Our donor coordinator will contact you for next steps 12. Can I donate more than once? Yes, eligible donors can donate up to six times, as recommended by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Each cycle is spaced out for your health and safety.
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