Pelvic infections and their impact on fertility

Fertility Specialist Kristin Bendikson, MD, explains the impact that pelvic infections can have on fertility by scarring the fallopian tubes and uterus
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Pelvic infections and their impact on fertility

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Pelvic infections can cause scarring in both of the fallopian tubes and the uterus. This can significantly reduce one's fertility potential. Scar tissue in the fallopian tubes can also lead to an increase in ectopic pregnancies. Scar tissue of the fallopian tube can be surgically corrected, however, the success rate after these surgeries is very much dependent on the amount of scarring in the tubes. With minimal scarring, success rates after surgery are great. They are approximately 50 percent. However, if the scarring is severe, then success rates are pretty dismal. In fact, at that rate, it's probably better off if the patient just proceed directly to Invitro Fertilization or IVF because this bypasses the tube. If, however, the tube is scarred down at the end and the tube is dilated and filled with fluid; that's called a hydrosalpinx, If a hydrosalpinx is present, this also decreases pregnancy rates, even in the setting of IVF. A hydrosalpinx needs to be surgically removed before a woman would undergo an IVF procedure. If there is scarring inside the uterus, this also can be surgically corrected. Again, the success rates after surgery very much depend on the extent of the scarring inside the uterine cavity.
PREGNANCY, Fertility, Infertility

Fertility Specialist Kristin Bendikson, MD, explains the impact that pelvic infections can have on fertility by scarring the fallopian tubes and uterus

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Kristin Bendikson, MD

Fertility Specialist

Dr. Kristin A. Bendikson joined USC Fertility after finishing her obstetrics and gynecology residency at Harvard Medical School and completing her subspecialty training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the internationally renowned Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility at Cornell University Medical College. During that time, she received intensive training in ovulation induction, in vitro fertilization and fertility surgery, as well as the management of other disorders including recurrent pregnancy loss, endometriosis, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. Kristin received her undergraduate degree from UCLA and attended the prestigious New York University School of Medicine. Her extensive training and years in practice have prepared her to deal with the most difficult and challenging cases.

Kristin holds the title of Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the USC Keck School of Medicine. She is the currently the principal investigator of several research projects including the study of zygote intrafallopian tube transfer for women of advanced reproductive age, aging of the uterine endometrium and vitamin D and its role in infertility. It is her goal to provide the highest quality care for her patients and to help them fulfill their desire of having a healthy baby. In addition, she strives to guide her patients through what can be a trying and difficult journey by providing them with the support and personal attention they need.

Fertility expert, teacher, and researcher, Kristin is also a married mother of two. She resides in West Los Angeles with her family.

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Transcription: 
Pelvic infections can cause scarring in both of the fallopian tubes and the uterus. This can significantly reduce one's fertility potential. Scar tissue in the fallopian tubes can also lead to an increase in ectopic pregnancies. Scar tissue of the fallopian tube can be surgically corrected, however, the success rate after these surgeries is very much dependent on the amount of scarring in the tubes. With minimal scarring, success rates after surgery are great. They are approximately 50 percent. However, if the scarring is severe, then success rates are pretty dismal. In fact, at that rate, it's probably better off if the patient just proceed directly to Invitro Fertilization or IVF because this bypasses the tube. If, however, the tube is scarred down at the end and the tube is dilated and filled with fluid; that's called a hydrosalpinx, If a hydrosalpinx is present, this also decreases pregnancy rates, even in the setting of IVF. A hydrosalpinx needs to be surgically removed before a woman would undergo an IVF procedure. If there is scarring inside the uterus, this also can be surgically corrected. Again, the success rates after surgery very much depend on the extent of the scarring inside the uterine cavity.
PREGNANCY, Fertility, Infertility