Endometrial Scratching

Northway Clinic offers women undergoing fertility treatment the option of Endometrial Scratching. Endometrial scratching is offered to all women prior to their IVF, ICSI or FET cycle.

New research and evidence suggests that scratching the uterine lining causes a “repair reaction” which results in significantly higher implantation, pregnancy and most importantly live birth rates following the technique. Most studies show the live birth rate is approximately doubled, even in those women who have previously had four or more unsuccessful cycles.

The lining of the uterus (the endometrium) is gently “scratched” using a thin catheter (a fine, flexible, sterile, plastic tube) that is passed through the cervix.

The procedure is carried out in the luteal phase of the cycle (i.e. after ovulation) in a cycle preceding your treatment. Normally this is done around day 21-day of the cycle.

During the cycle that the endometrial scratching is planned it will be vital the patient does not have unprotected intercourse to avoid risks to a possible pregnancy.

The procedure is carried out by a doctor. The procedure will take approximately 15 minutes to complete.

Much of the procedure is similar to a smear test or a coil insertion: a speculum is gently inserted into the vagina so the cervix can be seen, the cervix is cleaned with sterile gauze. A thin flexible catheter is inserted through the opening of the cervix, and the uterine lining is gently “scratched”. You will be advised to take painkillers 1-2 hours before your scheduled procedure. Please be aware that bleeding after the procedure is to be expected.