Infertility
Infertility affects one in seven couples in the UK. The strict definition of infertility varies, with differing times of regular, unprotected intercourse, but most couples will undergo some investigations after around 1-2 years of trying. In about 25% of cases, no cause is found for the subfertility. 60-70% of this group will conceive within 3 years without any treatment.
Surgery is not indicated in all women with subfertility, but diagnostic laparoscopy is a common investigation, particularly if there are other symptoms such as pelvic pain, pain on sexual intercourse or a history of abdominal/pelvic surgery which may have led to adhesions. A newer alternative which does not require abdominal incisions and can be done without general anaesthesia is culdoscopy. However, laparoscopic surgery is the only alternative to laparotomy if there is significant pelvic pathology such as endometriosis, adhesions or tubal disease. Finally, uterine fibroids may not only be associated with heavy periods, but also subfertility and recurrent miscarriage and can be managed by various types of myomectomy.
Please click on the links below for further information about specific procedures:
Culdoscopy
Diagnostic laparoscopy
Laparoscopic surgery for infertility
Myomectomy