Infertility Treatment Linked to Hysterectomy Risk

A large study found higher rates of peripartum hysterectomies among patients who used infertility treatments.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Pregnancy

Infertility Treatment Linked to Hysterectomy Risk

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A new study analyzing over 16 million hospital deliveries in the United States has identified a link between the use of infertility treatments and an increased risk of peripartum hysterectomy. Patients who underwent these treatments faced a 33% higher adjusted odds of needing the procedure compared to those who did not.

Why it matters

The research highlights a significant medical correlation that persists even when common complications like placental issues are absent. Understanding this association is critical for healthcare providers when counseling patients on potential risks associated with fertility interventions.

The study analyzed 16.7 million hospital deliveries, with 0.5% involving infertility treatment. This treatment was associated with 33% higher adjusted odds of peripartum hysterectomy.

The players

Fertility and Sterility

This is a peer-reviewed medical journal that publishes research on human reproduction, infertility, and reproductive surgery.

The details

Researchers utilized weighted logistic regression models to assess 16.7 million hospital births between 2000 and 2020. The findings indicate that the elevated risk for hysterectomy remained present even after accounting for documented placental complications or postpartum haemorrhage.

The analysis covered hospital deliveries between 2000 and 2020.
The study findings were published in October 2026.

Culture Shift

This research follows a pattern set by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine clinical guidelines, which continuously refine the safety profiles of assisted reproductive technologies. It marks a departure from earlier assumptions that higher hysterectomy risks were solely linked to maternal age or specific obstetric complications.

Patients currently considering or undergoing fertility treatments may want to discuss these findings with their obstetrician to better understand their individual risk profile. This data provides a basis for more informed clinical conversations regarding delivery plans and potential obstetric interventions.

The takeaway

While the absolute risk remains relatively low, the findings underscore the importance of comprehensive prenatal care for those who conceive via infertility treatment. Patients are encouraged to maintain open communication with their medical teams throughout their pregnancy journey.