Endometrial Scratching for Improving Endometrial Receptivity: a Critical Review of Old and New Clinical Evidence

Reprod Sci. 2023 Jun;30(6):1701-1711. doi: 10.1007/s43032-022-01125-4. Epub 2022 Dec 5.

Abstract

Endometrial scratching is intentional injury of the endometrium intended to improve the reproductive outcomes of infertile women who seek pregnancy. In recent years, several randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses of trials have been published, reporting controversial results. Some authors have recommended against endometrial scratching in clinical practice, while others have recommended its application to specific categories of patients. This article aimed to provide a critical analysis of the old and new available evidence, to assist physicians interpreting the published data, and to generate insights for future research on the topic.

Keywords: Endometrial injury; Endometrial scratching; Endometrium; Infertility; PCOS; Polycystic ovary syndrome.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endometrium
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Female* / therapy
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Rate
  • Reproduction