Interventional Radiology & Infertility

Overview

Interventional radiology plays a growing role in the management of conditions contributing to both female and male infertility. Our minimally invasive techniques address anatomical and vascular causes of infertility without open surgery, within a multidisciplinary framework.

We work closely with the Centre de PMA Paris Centre Port-Royal (AP-HP) to provide coordinated care for patients undergoing assisted reproduction.

Female infertility

🔴 Uterine fibroid embolization

Uterine fibroids — particularly submucosal or intracavitary — are a recognised cause of infertility and recurrent miscarriage. Uterine artery embolization treats all fibroids in a single session while preserving the uterus. Pregnancy is possible after UFE: a waiting period of 12–18 months is recommended. Decision is made jointly with the gynaecologist and fertility team.

❄️ Parietal endometriosis cryoablation

Abdominal wall endometriosis (particularly on a caesarean scar) can interfere with fertility. Cryoablation treats the parietal nodule without surgery, in a day case setting. It does not preclude future pregnancies.

🩸 Pelvic congestion syndrome

Pelvic varicose veins can contribute to chronic pelvic pain and may affect fertility. Ovarian vein embolization is an effective treatment in selected patients.

→ Read more: Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Male infertility

♂️ Varicocele embolization

Varicocele is present in up to 40% of men investigated for infertility. Embolization occludes the pathological spermatic veins without surgery, under local anaesthesia, as a day case procedure. It may improve sperm parameters and is associated with improved pregnancy rates in selected couples.

→ Read more: Varicocele Embolization

Multidisciplinary approach: All fertility-related cases are discussed with our gynaecology, urology, and reproductive medicine colleagues. We do not treat infertility in isolation — our interventions are always part of a coordinated fertility programme.

✅ Covered by French health insurance (Assurance Maladie). No extra fees at Cochin Hospital AP-HP.

Frequently asked questions

In selected cases, yes. Varicocele embolization may improve sperm parameters in men, and fibroid or adenomyosis embolization can be considered in women, always in close coordination with the fertility specialist.

No. The link between varicocele and infertility is statistical, not causal in every case. Sperm parameters improve in 50-70% of treated men, but pregnancy is not guaranteed.

Yes. At Cochin AP-HP (a French public hospital), procedures are covered by national health insurance with no out-of-pocket fees. Contact ri.cch@aphp.fr or +33 1 58 41 46 12.

Why this page is trustworthy

Written by the Interventional Radiology team at Cochin Hospital AP-HP, Université Paris Cité. Medically reviewed by an interventional radiologist of the department. Last updated: August 2026.

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