UNCOVERING INTRAUTERINE PATHOLOGY: HYSTEROSCOPIC FINDINGS AMONG INFERTILE WOMEN AT A NIGERIAN TERTIARY HOSPITAL

ABSTRACT Background: Hysteroscopy enables direct visualization of the uterine cavity using a hysteroscope and has transformed the diagnosis and management of intrauterine pathology in modern gynaecology. However, the World Health Organization recommends its use mainly after failed in-vitro fertilization or when other investigations, such as ultrasonography or hysterosalpingography, indicate intrauterine abnormalities. Uterine pathology remains a significant factor that can adversely affect fertility outcomes in both natural conception and assisted reproductive techniques. Aim: To evaluate the role of Hysteroscopy in diagnosing the abnormalities of the uterine cavity among female being evaluated for infertility at FMC, Jabi Study Design: It was a descriptive retrospective study which was carried out on females being evaluated for infertility at FMC, Jabi between 1st January 2021 and 31st December 2021. Results: The mean age was 40.2 ± 7.8 years. The highest percentage of the included cases were in the age group between 40-49 years (53.1%) followed by those age between 30-39 years (34.3%). Secondary infertility was the major type of infertility seen in 81.3%. Normal hysteroscopic findings were reported in 15.6% of women. The other 84.4% were with abnormal hysteroscopy. The most common reported hysteroscopic abnormality was intrauterine adhesions 34.4% followed by cervical stenosis 21.8%. Conclusion: Majority of the women who were evaluated for infertility had an abnormal finding, hence routine diagnostic hysteroscopy should be part of the infertility workup in both primary and secondary infertility.