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Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility?

OBGYN CARE Blog Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility?

If you experience severe pelvic pain or heavy periods and haven’t had any luck getting pregnant, you may be experiencing the effects of endometriosis. An estimated one in 10 people with a uterus develop this inflammatory condition during their fertile years, yet it often goes undiagnosed for some time. Addressing endometriosis early on is important for minimizing symptoms and potential complications, including fertility problems. In some cases, endometriosis contributes to full-fledged infertility, or the inability to conceive within a year of trying.

Learn more about endometriosis and infertility by reaching out to the experts at OBGYN-Care or requesting an appointment on our website. With locations in Irvine and Newport Beach, California, our team is ready to give you the care you deserve.

Endometriosis basics

Endometriosis is a chronic condition that causes cells that make up the lining of your uterus grow outside of the organ, in other parts of your body, such as your bowel or bladder. Your body doesn’t have a way to flush them out, leading to inflammation, painful lesions, and scar tissue. 

Endometriosis can cause a range of symptoms and complications, including:

How endometriosis impacts fertility

Endometriosis doesn’t directly or automatically cause infertility, but it can make it harder for you to get pregnant. If uterine cells form on your ovaries or fallopian tubes, they can keep eggs from reaching the uterus, interfering with conception. Endometriosis can also impact fertility by triggering inflammation that may harm sperm or eggs, keeping them from moving freely. Close to an estimated 40% of women with infertility also have endometriosis. 

Turning things around

The sooner you receive a proper diagnosis and treatment for endometriosis, the healthier you’ll be in many important ways. If you do have endometriosis, appropriate care may take care of your fertility challenges. Endometriosis treatment options include birth control pills, hormone agonists and, for severe cases, a hysterectomy. 

At your exam, Dr. Marinescu or Baker can also help detect other issues that may be impacting your fertility. 

Other potential causes of infertility in women include:

Keep in mind that infertility issues can affect all sexes. About one-third of infertility issues stem from issues in a male partner, one-third from issues affecting a female partner, and one-third from a mix of both. For this reason, it’s important to consider the health needs of both partners, if you’re struggling to conceive.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis or fertility problems, contact OBGYN-Care or request an appointment on our website. Our team would love to help you meet your pelvic health and wellness needs.

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