Endometriosis and IVF

“The pain is real, it’s not just a bad period, it’s endometriosis...”

 

How does endometriosis impact fertility?

About 30% to 50% of women with infertility have endometriosis. According to American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), endometriosis causes inflammation that may damage the sperm or egg, or interfere with their movement through the fallopian tubes and uterus. Severe cases of endometriosis may have adhesions or scar tissue blocking the fallopian tubes.

What are some treatment options for endometriosis-associated infertility?

There are four different stages of endometriosis with different treatment options

  • Stage I-II Endometriosis: clomiphene (Clomid) IUI treatment

  • Stage III-IV Endometriosis:

    • Surgery (laparoscopy). If not pregnant after 6-12 months, may consider IVF.

    • In some situations, no surgery, just IVF

What is currently known about endometriosis and IVF?

  • Endometriosis impacts implantation rate after embryo transfer

  • Stage I-II Endometriosis has a better prognosis (pregnancy and live birth rate) compared to Stage III-IV Endometriosis

  • There are endometriosis treatment options that can help women with recurrent implantation failure


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Last Reviewed: September 21, 2023