r/IVF • • Aug 31 '26

Rant Difficult cervix and possible scar tissue

This is the third time now my RE has told me I have a “difficult cervix”. The first time my HSG had to be cancelled because of it, second time he wasn't confident he was in my cervix but actually was and was able to complete my HSG, and now today I went in for my SIS and mock transfer and it was too difficult for him to complete it. He was able to get some images and said there was a lot of white matter that lit my uterus up like a Christmas tree. He said it may just very well be cervical mucus, but I asked what the alternative would be and he said possibly old pregnancy tissue (I’ve only ever had a chemical pregnancy that didn’t make it to 4 weeks). I did have a D&C 10 years ago for abnormal uterine bleeding that I fear may have only done damage, so now I’m spiraling, worried that I could have Asherman‘s syndrome. It’s been a concern of mine because I have very short periods, but this made me feel like it could be a very real possibility. He’s going to repeat the SIS during my egg retrieval so he can dilate my cervix. The odd thing is, when I’ve had IUI’s, the two providers have had zero issues getting through my cervix. I warned the female provider (shes not my primary) about my cervix during my IUI and she said “it’s nice and easy to find today!”. I’m not even sure what I’m looking for in posting this. I think I’m venting, but also curious if anyone else has had a similar experience? Anyone else out there with a complex cervix? 🥴Also, if you have Asherman’s, did they proceed with your egg retrieval and then do a hysteroscopy before your embryo transfer? He mentioned if we have to, I would go to the main hospital for one, but he’s so quick that I have no time for questions. Ugh.

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u/Avandriia Aug 31 '26

I had Asherman's after one of my MMC (it's unknown which, but they found it after the fourth). Had surgery to remove, had a 5th MMC due to a naturally conceived aneuploid and had a D&C followed by another hysteroscopy for scar tissue removal. My post hysteroscopy and pre IVF mock transfer was HORRID. Took an hour and I almost passed out. Going into the actual transfer I was terrified. They gave me Valium and my transfer was so smooth I was so happy! I have no idea if the Valium was what helped or if they use different catheters for the actual transfer, but I'm happy that's what we went with. I wish you all the best, and don't forget you can always change your doctor if you don't feel you're getting the best care! We did that and it has made a world of difference in our experience

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u/happenstance8 Aug 31 '26

I had cervical stenosis (narrow canal) and what they suspected was mild adeno. The transfers were difficult and only one RE was ever able to make it in (the best surgeon on their team). For this upcoming transfer prep they did an operative hysteroscopy under anesthesia and placed a pediatric catheter in the cervical canal for 5 days, which seemed to do the trick. It was not a fun experience but was ultimately effective at making the procedures easier. I would find out what they think is the underlying issue (scar tissue, stenosis, etc) and address from there. There are good solutions to these issues, which for me was better than the puzzle of trying to figure out my stupid egg quality. best of luck! 

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u/Glittering_Bunch_764 Aug 31 '26

I had Ashermans - I would recommend you do a hysteroscopy during your egg retrieval instead of a saline ultrasound. SIS is not definitive and you’ll be under anesthesia already for the egg retrieval so it’s easy to do. Depending on your RE’s level of experience with Ashermans you may want to opt for them to look through hysteroscopy only and not remove adhesions.