Treatments

Endometrial scratch in India

Quick answer

An endometrial scratch is a brief clinic procedure that lightly disturbs the womb lining in the cycle before IVF or embryo transfer. The idea is that healing may help an embryo implant, but research results have been mixed. The UK fertility regulator HFEA rates it yellow, meaning it is not clear whether it improves outcomes.

Medically reviewed by The Curaventa Team · Last updated 2026-10-24

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At a glance

Fertility and IVFSpecialty

The scratch is sometimes offered after repeated failed embryo transfers. A thin plastic tube (pipelle) is passed through the cervix and moved gently to take a small sample of lining. The procedure takes a few minutes.

Large trials have not shown a consistent increase in live births. Many specialists therefore do not offer it routinely and reserve discussion for selected patients. It is an optional add-on, and you can decline it.

How this approach differs

This is an add-on with uncertain benefit, not a core part of IVF. The HFEA traffic-light system places it in the yellow category, where effectiveness is unclear. Ask your doctor what evidence they rely on, and whether the extra trip or cost is worthwhile for you.

Who needs endometrial scratch

Women with two or more failed embryo transfers, after other causes are checked
Patients who, after discussing the uncertain evidence, still wish to try it
Cases where a lining biopsy is needed anyway for another test

How it is done

The scratch is usually timed for the second half of the cycle before treatment.
A pregnancy test may be done first to make sure you are not pregnant.
You lie as for a smear test and a speculum is inserted.
A thin pipelle is passed into the uterus and moved to take a small sample.
Mild cramping is common; painkillers taken an hour before can help.
IVF or frozen transfer then follows in the next cycle.

Before you travel to India

Records of previous embryo transfers and embryo quality
Hysteroscopy or ultrasound results showing the uterine cavity is normal
Plan timing: the scratch is done a cycle before treatment, which may add a separate visit
Ask for the written evidence the clinic uses to recommend it

Recovery and flying home

You can go back to normal activities the same day.
Light spotting for a day or two is common.
Avoid intercourse for a couple of days if advised.
Report fever or heavy pain, which may suggest infection.

Risks

Cramping and discomfort during the procedure
Light bleeding
Infection, which is rare
Cost and travel for a procedure without proven benefit

Alternatives

Hysteroscopy to check for polyps, adhesions or septum
Frozen embryo transfer with optimised lining preparation
Preimplantation genetic testing in selected cases
No add-on, continuing standard transfers

Hospitals in India for endometrial scratch

How these hospitals compare

Specialists

Frequently asked questions

Does an endometrial scratch increase my chance of a baby?

Evidence is mixed and recent large trials did not show a clear benefit. The HFEA rates it yellow, meaning effectiveness is unclear.

Is it painful?

Most women feel period-like cramps for a short time. Taking a painkiller beforehand usually helps.

Can it be done on the same trip as my embryo transfer?

It is normally done in the cycle before treatment, so it often needs to be done at home or on an earlier visit. Ask if a local gynaecologist can perform it.

Sources

HFEA: Treatment add-ons with limited evidence

Medically reviewed by The Curaventa Team. Last updated 2026-10-24. General information, not medical advice. Medical editorial board · Editorial policy · How we get prices

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