Endometriosis and Fertility

Symptoms of endometriosis

Some women with Endometriosis are without symptoms, but others suffer heavy or painful periods and pain during intercourse.

How is endometriosis diagnosed and treated?

Endometriosis can appear as spots or patches called implants or as cysts on the ovaries and in severe cases can affect surrounding tissue causing adhesions or scar tissue. Unlike the lining of the uterus, endometrial tissue located outside the womb is trapped and does not have a way to leave the body. This can cause inflammation near the implants and if nerve tissue is affected, pelvic pain may result.

The diagnosis of Endometriosis cannot be made from symptoms alone as some women have no symptoms as there may be other reasons for pelvic pain.

Surgery or Laparoscopy is the only definitive way to diagnose endometriosis. Laparoscopy allows direct visualisation and ideally biopsy of areas suspected of being endometriosis. It is carried out by inserting a small telescope through an incision close to the naval.

During a laparoscopy, the surgeon can also clarify if the tubes are open. This is where liquid is flushed through the neck of the womb.

Effect of endometriosis on fertility

Many women who have Endometriosis can conceive without any difficulty however some women do have difficulty getting pregnant. IVF is an appropriate treatment for infertility associated with Endometriosis where other methods have failed.