Reproductive surgery involves surgical procedures designed to diagnose, treat, or correct conditions that interfere with a person’s ability to conceive. In women, it is often performed to restore normal reproductive anatomy, improve egg release, and enhance the pathway for sperm to reach the egg.

When It’s Needed

Because women have a more complex reproductive system, multiple anatomical structures can be affected by fertility-limiting conditions. Reproductive surgery may be considered when:

  • Cysts, fibroids, or endometriosis lesions are present and significantly compromise fertility.
  • There are structural abnormalities in the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries.
  • Pelvic adhesions or scarring block the movement of eggs or sperm.
  • Hormonal disorders like PCOS cause ovulation problems but also involve ovarian cyst removal in certain cases.
  • Polyps or abnormal tissue growths are found inside the uterus.

Conditions That May Require Surgery

  • Hysteroscopy
    For treating intrauterine conditions such as uterine polyps, fibroids, adhesions, or septum.
  • Laparoscopy
    For diagnosing and treating pelvic conditions like endometriosis, adhesions, or blocked fallopian tubes.
  • Endometriosis
    Removal of endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus.
  • Fibroids (Myomas)
    Myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus.
  • Ovarian Cysts
    Cystectomy to remove cysts and preserve healthy ovarian tissue.
  • PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)
    In some cases, surgical treatment (ovarian drilling) may help restore ovulation.
  • Uterine Polyps
    Removal to improve implantation chances.
  • Intrauterine Adhesions
    Adhesiolysis to restore normal uterine cavity shape.

Procedure Overview

Most reproductive surgeries are performed using minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy or hysteroscopy, which reduce recovery time and minimize scarring. General anesthesia is usually required. The exact procedure depends on the condition being treated, with most surgeries completed within 1–3 hours and recovery in a few days to weeks.

Benefits

  • Restores normal anatomy for natural conception.
  • Improves outcomes for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF.
  • Relieves symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, or menstrual irregularities.
  • Removes physical barriers preventing egg release or sperm transport.

Considerations

All surgeries carry risks, such as infection, bleeding, or scar tissue formation. Your doctor will assess your condition and determine if surgery is the best approach or if alternative treatments are more suitable.