Intrauterine Adhesions (Asherman Syndrome)

Dr. Raanan Meyer specializes in the accurate diagnosis and minimally invasive surgical treatment of intrauterine adhesions, restoring normal uterine function and improving reproductive outcomes.

What Are Intrauterine Adhesions?

Intrauterine adhesions—also known as Asherman Syndrome—are bands of scar tissue that form inside the uterus. These adhesions can cause the walls of the uterus to stick together, partially or completely obstructing the uterine cavity. In many cases, this condition leads to menstrual irregularities, infertility, and pregnancy complications. Asherman Syndrome is often underdiagnosed or misattributed to hormonal imbalances, especially when periods become lighter or disappear.

What Causes Asherman Syndrome?

  • Intrauterine adhesions most commonly develop following trauma to the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium), particularly after surgical procedures or infection.
    Common causes include:
    • Dilation and curettage (D&C), especially after miscarriage or retained placenta
    • Uterine surgery (e.g., myomectomy, polypectomy)
    • Cesarean section
    • Radiation therapy to the pelvis
    • Severe pelvic infections (e.g., tuberculosis or schistosomiasis, rare in developed countries)
    The risk of developing adhesions increases with repeated procedures or surgeries involving the uterine cavity. When the endometrial lining is injured and healing is incomplete, fibrous scar tissue can form, replacing the normal functional tissue necessary for menstruation and pregnancy.

Symptoms of Intrauterine Adhesions

The severity of symptoms often depends on the extent and location of adhesions. Some women may have mild adhesions with minimal symptoms, while others experience significant menstrual and fertility issues.
Common signs and symptoms include:
  • Light or absent menstrual periods (hypomenorrhea or amenorrhea)
  • Painful periods or cramping with little to no bleeding
  • Recurrent miscarriages
  • Infertility or difficulty conceiving
  • Implantation failure during IVF
  • Recurrent second-trimester pregnancy losses
If you’ve had a recent D&C or uterine surgery followed by a significant change in your menstrual flow, intrauterine adhesions should be ruled out.

How Do Intrauterine Adhesions Affect Fertility?

Intrauterine adhesions interfere with the normal endometrial lining, which is essential for embryo implantation and pregnancy support. Adhesions may:
  • Prevent the uterine lining from regenerating normally
  • Create a hostile environment for sperm or embryos
  • Block blood supply to parts of the uterine lining
  • Obstruct the cervical canal, making conception more difficult
  • Increase the risk of miscarriage, placental abnormalities, and preterm delivery
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical for women with Asherman Syndrome who wish to conceive. In many cases, fertility can be restored after adhesiolysis—the surgical removal of adhesions.

Diagnosing Intrauterine Adhesions

Because Asherman Syndrome often mimics hormonal disorders, diagnosis can be delayed without a proper evaluation. Dr. Meyer uses advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques to confirm the presence, extent, and severity of adhesions.
Diagnostic tools include:
  • Sonohysterography (saline infusion ultrasound): A detailed ultrasound performed with sterile fluid to visualize the uterine cavity and identify any adhesions.
  • Hysterosalpingography (HSG): A contrast dye X-ray used to evaluate the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes, though less precise than sonohysterography.
  • Diagnostic hysteroscopy: The gold standard for diagnosis, allowing direct visualization of the uterine cavity and adhesions using a thin camera inserted through the cervix.
  • Hysteroscopy allows Dr. Meyer to not only diagnose but also treat adhesions during the same procedure in many cases.

Minimally Invasive Surgical Treatment for Asherman Syndrome

Dr. Raanan Meyer performs hysteroscopic adhesiolysis, the most effective treatment for intrauterine adhesions. This procedure uses a slender hysteroscope inserted through the cervix, allowing direct visualization and precise removal of scar tissue using micro scissors or energy-based tools.

Key benefits of hysteroscopic surgery:
  • No abdominal incisions
  • High success rate in restoring menstrual function
  • Same-day outpatient procedure
  • Minimal discomfort and quick recovery
  • Fertility-preserving approach

The complexity of adhesiolysis depends on the density, location, and number of adhesions. In severe cases where the uterine cavity is almost entirely obliterated, multiple staged procedures may be needed to gradually restore a normal cavity.

Preventing Recurrence After Surgery

Postoperative management is crucial to reduce the risk of adhesion recurrence and to promote regeneration of healthy endometrial tissue.

Dr. Meyer may recommend the following strategies:
  • Placement of a temporary intrauterine balloon or stent to keep the cavity open during healing
  • Use of estrogen therapy to stimulate endometrial growth
  • Follow-up hysteroscopy within 4–6 weeks to confirm cavity restoration
  • Antibiotics if there is a history of infection
  • Gradual introduction of embryo transfer or fertility treatment after healing is complete

When treated early and appropriately, most patients experience significant improvement in menstrual flow and fertility outcomes.

What Is the Prognosis After Treatment?

The prognosis depends on the severity of adhesions and how much functional endometrium remains. In mild to moderate cases, surgical success rates are excellent, and most women resume normal periods and can conceive naturally or with fertility support. In severe cases, where the basal endometrium is extensively damaged, fertility outcomes may be limited. However, even in these cases, symptom relief and better uterine function can be achieved.

Why Choose Dr. Raanan Meyer

Dr. Raanan Meyer brings advanced surgical expertise and a compassionate, personalized approach to the diagnosis and treatment of intrauterine adhesions.
What sets Dr. Meyer apart:
  • Hysteroscopic specialist with experience in complex adhesiolysis
  • Fertility-preserving focus for women planning pregnancy
  • Use of advanced imaging for accurate diagnosis
  • Comprehensive aftercare to prevent recurrence
  • Collaboration with fertility specialists when needed
Every patient receives a tailored treatment plan that addresses symptoms, reproductive goals, and long-term uterine health.

Take the First Step To Restoring Your Health & Fertility

If you’ve experienced a sudden change in your menstrual cycle after uterine surgery or are facing unexplained infertility, intrauterine adhesions may be the cause. Dr. Meyer provides expert evaluation and state-of-the-art treatment to help restore your health and fertility. Schedule a consultation today to take the next step toward answers, healing, and personalized care.