Asherman syndrome (intrauterine adhesions) is a condition that results in the formation of scar tissue in the uterine cavity. The problem most often develops after uterine surgery. The scarring of the tissue causes thickening, breaking down and bleeding — during each menstrual cycle. This results in an enlarged uterus and painful, heavy periods. Asherman syndrome is a rare condition and mostly occurs in women who have had several dilatation and curettage procedures in the past.
Other possible causes include endometriosis, infections of the reproductive organs and a past radiation treatment. The treatment for Asherman syndrome is done by a surgical procedure called a hysteroscopy. The objective of the surgery is to make the uterus regain its normal size and shape. In addition to diagnosis, hysteroscopy can also be used to treat the condition by cutting the adhesions with very small scissors, lasers or other types of instruments that use hooks or electrodes.