Can endometriosis cause female infertility?

It does not mean pregnancy is impossible. The effect varies with the location and extent of endometriosis, ovarian function, age, and other fertility factors affecting either partner.

Endometriosis is tissue similar to the lining of the uterus growing outside the uterus. It can trigger inflammation in the pelvis. Scar tissue called adhesions may change the position or movement of the ovaries and fallopian tubes, making it harder for an egg and sperm to meet.

Endometriosis can also form cysts on an ovary, known as endometriomas, which may affect healthy ovarian tissue. Fertility difficulty can occur even when symptoms are mild, while severe pelvic pain does not by itself show how much fertility has been affected. A complete assessment matters because endometriosis may be one factor among several.

Arrange a preconception or fertility appointment if you have diagnosed or suspected endometriosis and are concerned about conceiving. Bring details of your menstrual cycle, pelvic pain, previous scans or operations, medicines, and how long you have been trying.

A clinician may assess ovulation, the ovaries, the uterus, and whether the fallopian tubes appear open. When relevant, semen testing for a partner is part of the same evaluation. Management is tailored to your symptoms and pregnancy plans and may include trying naturally for a defined period, laparoscopic surgery in selected cases, or assisted conception. Hormonal treatments can control endometriosis pain, but they usually prevent pregnancy while they are being used.

Seek a fertility assessment after 12 months of regular sex without contraception if pregnancy has not occurred. Ask for advice sooner if you already have endometriosis, have very painful periods, have had pelvic surgery, have irregular or absent periods, or have concerns about either partner's fertility.

Get urgent medical care for sudden severe pelvic pain, fainting, shoulder-tip pain, heavy bleeding, or pelvic pain with a positive pregnancy test. These symptoms need prompt assessment for problems such as internal bleeding, ovarian complications, or an ectopic pregnancy.

You might ask whether your symptoms or previous findings suggest ovarian or tubal involvement, which fertility tests are appropriate now, and whether treatment for pain would delay attempts to conceive. If surgery is discussed, ask how it could affect ovarian tissue and how the possible fertility benefits compare with assisted conception in your situation.