We asked our resident Fertility Nurse Consultant Kate Davies to explain a little more about Asherman’s Syndrome and what this might mean for you.
What Is Asherman’s Syndrome?
Asherman’s syndrome is a rare condition that causes scar tissue in the uterus or cervix and may also be referred to as uterine adhesions. It can be difficult to diagnose and sadly some women will struggle trying to conceive or experience recurrent miscarriages.
What Are The Causes?
Most of the causes of Asherman’s Syndrome are as a result of surgical procedures, such as a ERPC or D&C procedure following a miscarriage or termination of pregnancy, and often when infection is experienced as a result. Adhesions or scarring then form inside the uterus.
Other causes may be due to severe pelvic infection and other uterine surgical procedures such as a cesarean section. There is some opinion to suggest that another cause could be genetic predisposition, however more research is required to understand this possible link further.
What Are The Symptoms of Asherman’s Syndrome?
The following are the symptoms of Asherman’s Syndrome. You may experience some or all of the recognised symptoms:
- Scanty periods
- Irregular periods
- Absence of periods
- Menstruation pain without bleeding
- Infertility
- Recurrent miscarriage
How Do You Diagnose and Treat Asherman’s?
It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis and this can be done by ultrasound scan. Your doctor may see a thin endometrium (uterine lining) and in some circumstances the scar tissue.
Asherman’s can be treated via a hysteroscopy procedure. This is where a small telescope is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. Your doctor is then able to repair the uterine wall. Following this, a stent or a uterine contraceptive device is inserted into the uterus to hold the walls apart and stop scar tissue reforming. Your doctor may prescribe oestrogen hormonal treatment to help the endometrium grow as thick and quickly as possible.
The scar tissue can reoccur after surgery and therefore your doctor may advise you to wait before trying to conceive.
Where Can You Get Help and Support?
As Lucy explains, it’s important to seek advice if you are concerned about Asherman’s. It is crucial to get empowered with your body and as knowledgeable as you can so you can advocate for yourself. You might need to be persistent with your doctors but keep going back and if necessary, seek advice from a Asherman’s specialist.
International Asherman’s Association
You can hear more about Asherman’s Syndrome on The Fertility Podcast Kate co-hosts.
Find The Fertility Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Goggle Podcasts, Stitcher and Acast and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!