What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic reproductive health condition where tissue similar to the endometrial lining grows outside the uterus. This misplaced tissue can attach to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic organs, leading to pain, inflammation, and scarring.
For many women, endometriosis is one of the leading causes of infertility, affecting 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide [American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)]. The diagnosis of endometriosis is often delayed due to symptoms that mimic other medical conditions and young women being unaware of what defines normal menstrual discomforts. However, advancements in fertility treatment, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), offer hope for conception.
If you’re struggling with infertility due to endometriosis, understanding how it affects fertility and what treatment options are available can help you take control of your IVF journey.
How Does Endometriosis Affect Fertility?
Women with endometriosis may experience difficulties conceiving due to:
Inflammation & Scarring: Chronic inflammation can create scar tissue and pelvic adhesions, blocking the fallopian tubes and preventing sperm from reaching the egg.
Hormonal Imbalances: Endometriosis can disrupt hormonal levels, affecting ovulation and egg quality.
Egg Quality & Ovarian Reserve: Studies show that endometriosis may reduce ovarian reserve, making it harder to retrieve healthy eggs for fertility treatment [National Library of Medicine].
Implantation Issues: Even if an embryo forms, endometrial inflammation can make it difficult for the embryo to attach to the uterine lining.
Pain & Discomfort: Severe pelvic pain during intercourse may lead to reduced sexual activity, affecting natural conception.
Did You Know?
40-50% of women with endometriosis experience infertility [Mayo Clinic]—but many can still conceive with the right fertility treatment plan.
How Pregnancy Can Positively Impact Endometriosis
For many women, pregnancy brings temporary relief from endometriosis symptoms, although having endometriosis can impact the ability to get pregnant. Here’s why:
Hormonal Changes Suppress Endometrial Growth: During pregnancy, estrogen levels decrease while progesterone remains high. This shift suppresses endometrial tissue growth, leading to reduced pain and inflammation.
Menstrual Cycles Pause: Pregnancy halts the menstrual cycle, meaning no periods for nine months—a natural way to prevent the monthly flare-ups of endometriosis and, therefore, eliminate the symptoms.
Reduced Inflammation: Progesterone has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help decrease pelvic pain and adhesions caused by endometriosis. Progesterone levels have been said to rise ten times the normal level during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding May Extend Relief: If you choose to breastfeed, your body continues producing high levels of prolactin and progesterone, which may delay the return of menstrual cycles and prolong relief from symptoms. This is an added benefit to the mother and baby.
Potential Long-Term Benefits: Some women report a lasting reduction in endometriosis symptoms after pregnancy. However, this varies per individual, and symptoms may return after childbirth or when menstrual cycles resume.
Important Note:
While pregnancy can temporarily relieve endometriosis symptoms, it is not a cure. Many women still require postpartum management and long-term treatment strategies.
Looking for expert fertility support? Preferred Fertility Concierge specializes in helping women with endometriosis navigate their IVF journey.
Endometriosis & Infertility: What Are Your Options?
1. Natural Conception & Lifestyle Adjustments
For women with mild endometriosis, small changes can improve fertility:
Anti-inflammatory diet – Focus on foods rich in omega-3s, fiber, and antioxidants.
Regular exercise – Reduces estrogen levels and alleviates inflammation.
Supplements – CoQ10, vitamin D, and omega-3s may support egg quality which may be impacted by the hormonal fluctuations experienced with endometriosis.
Acupuncture – Some studies suggest it improves blood flow to reproductive organs. Many women report that acupuncture is relaxing.
Best for: Women under 35 with mild symptoms and regular ovulation.
2. Medications to Manage Symptoms
While birth control pills, progestins, or GnRH agonists can reduce endometriosis symptoms, they are not recommended when actively trying to conceive. However, they may be used before fertility treatments to help reduce inflammation and regulate menstrual cycles.
Best for: Women with moderate endometriosis preparing for IVF or IUI.
3. Surgery for Endometriosis & Fertility
Laparoscopic surgery can remove endometrial tissue, improving pregnancy rates by 30-50% [Johns Hopkins Medicine]. However, surgery carries risks, especially if ovarian reserve is already low.
Best for: Women with severe endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, or pelvic adhesions.
4. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) for Endometriosis
For moderate to severe endometriosis, IVF is the most effective fertility treatment. It bypasses fallopian tube blockages and allows for careful embryo selection, increasing pregnancy success.
Higher Success Rates – IVF success rates for endometriosis patients range from 30-50% per cycle.
Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation) – Women with endometriosis and low ovarian reserve can freeze eggs for future IVF cycles. This can provide an opportunity for future pregnancy.
Best for: Women with severe endometriosis, ovarian reserve concerns, or multiple failed IUI cycles.
Final Thoughts
Endometriosis can be a barrier to conception, but pregnancy can bring temporary relief from its symptoms. If you’re struggling with infertility, know that options like IVF and lifestyle changes can improve your chances of conceiving.
If you experience any of the symptoms indicated or suspect you may have endometriosis, consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.
At Preferred Fertility Concierge, we’re committed to helping you navigate your fertility and IVF journey with confidence, care, and support.
Need fertility coaching on your path to parenthood? Schedule a consultation call today.
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