How Does Endometriosis Affect Fertility?

Endometriosis is a painful condition that affects an estimated 176 million females in their childbearing years. If you have the condition, your first question may be about how endometriosis can interfere with your future family plans.

At Urology Specialist Group, our experienced urology team offers infertility services in the Miami, Florida, area to address endometriosis and other underlying health issues that affect your ability to have children.

We provide conservative and surgical solutions to treat endometriosis and improve your chances for successfully conceiving a viable pregnancy.

What to know about endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when your endometrium (uterine lining) grows outside of your uterus. The tissue can grow on your other reproductive organs, including your fallopian tubes and ovaries. It can also adhere to your bladder and nearby pelvic organs.

Some women can have endometriosis without any symptoms. However, many experience persistent pelvic pain, pain during sex, and heavy periods.

Endometriosis can also make it difficult for women to become pregnant and is the root cause of infertility for up to 50% of women.

Endometriosis and the link to fertility

While not every woman with endometriosis will experience infertility issues, the condition can cause some complications with conception. The excess tissue can distort or damage fallopian tubes or ovaries. Endometriosis can also cause adhesions and scar tissue that prevents sperm from traveling to meet the egg.

Some women with endometriosis may be at increased risk for an ectopic pregnancy, a condition that occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of your uterus, usually in your fallopian tube or ovary.

There may also be a link between the inflammatory effect endometriosis has on your body and the quality of your eggs.

In mild to moderate cases of endometriosis, infertility issues are often temporary and can be effectively treated to improve your chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy.

Getting help for endometriosis-related infertility

If you haven’t been able to conceive a pregnancy after a year of having unprotected sex, you should call our office to schedule a consultation.

Our team offers on-site diagnostic testing to confirm endometriosis and assess the severity of your condition. We customize a treatment plan to your needs to improve your chances of conceiving a viable pregnancy.

Treatments for endometriosis may include:

Surgery

Using minimally invasive surgical techniques, our providers can remove excess endometrial tissue that covers your reproductive organs.

Ovulation therapy

Following surgery, you may need ovulation therapy. Taking fertility drugs can stimulate the release of your eggs to improve your chances of spontaneous fertilization.

In-vitro fertilization

In-vitro fertilization is a process that involves the fertilization of eggs with sperm outside of the body. The team facilitates fertilization in a lab and then implants viable embryos into your uterus.

We work closely with you to assess your needs and determine which treatment is the right fit for you. Our goal is to help you achieve the family you want to have and lower your risk for endometriosis complications.

To schedule an infertility consultation, call the Urology Specialist Group office nearest to you or book an appointment online today.