Scratching and IVF: any role?

Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2016 Jun;28(3):178-83. doi: 10.1097/GCO.0000000000000264.

Abstract

Purpose of review: To review updated information on the influence of endometrial scratching on IVF.

Recent findings: Endometrial receptivity remains an important rate-limiting step affecting the success of IVF. The current evidence on the effect of endometrial scratching on IVF ranges from marked improvement, no difference to a potentially negative impact. The heterogeneity of studies presents a challenge in interpretation of data for routine clinical practice.

Summary: Endometrial scratching performed in the preceding cycle is associated with improved clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in women with recurrent implantation failure, but not in unselected subfertile women undergoing IVF. Most of the current literature are underpowered and at high risk of bias.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Birth Rate
  • Embryo Implantation
  • Embryo Transfer
  • Endometrium / surgery*
  • Female
  • Fertilization in Vitro / methods*
  • Humans
  • Hysteroscopy
  • Infertility
  • Infertility, Female / therapy*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Pregnancy Rate*