Does endometriosis cause trouble getting pregnant?

Endometriosis may cause inflammation, scarring, or changes around the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvis. These changes can interfere with the release or movement of an egg, sperm reaching an egg, or implantation. The condition can also be present without obvious symptoms, and its effect on fertility varies from person to person.

Difficulty conceiving does not identify one cause on its own. Age, ovulation, sperm health, previous pelvic infection, and other reproductive conditions may also be considered.

Arrange an appointment with a gynaecologist or fertility specialist if pregnancy has not occurred after a period of trying, or sooner if you have known endometriosis, irregular ovulation, or significant pelvic pain. Assessment may include your history, examination, ultrasound, ovulation review, and a semen analysis for your partner.

Treatment choices can include pain control, surgery in selected situations, ovulation support, or assisted conception. The right approach depends on your symptoms, test results, plans, and previous treatment.

Seek prompt medical advice for severe or worsening pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, fever, or a positive pregnancy test with one-sided pain or bleeding. These symptoms need assessment because they can signal a problem requiring urgent care.

Ask whether endometriosis may be affecting your tubes or ovaries, which fertility tests are appropriate, and how treatment could affect your plans for pregnancy. You can also ask when to consider specialist referral and how pain treatment can be managed while trying to conceive.