How does endometriosis affect fertility?

Endometriosis can affect fertility through multiple mechanisms: inflamed or blocked fallopian tubes, ovarian cysts (endometriomas) that damage egg quality, pelvic adhesions that distort anatomy, inflammatory environment preventing implantation, and hormonal disruption affecting ovulation and uterine receptivity. Up to 50% of women with infertility have endometriosis.

Can I get pregnant naturally with endometriosis?

Yes, many women with endometriosis can conceive naturally, especially with mild cases. However, pregnancy rates decrease with severity. Stage I-II endometriosis may have minimal impact, while Stage III-IV can significantly reduce natural conception chances. Early treatment can improve outcomes.

Should I have surgery before trying IVF for endometriosis?

The decision depends on your specific case. Surgery may be beneficial for removing large endometriomas (>4cm) or severe adhesions. However, surgery can also reduce ovarian reserve. Many specialists now recommend proceeding directly to IVF for moderate endometriosis, as IVF can bypass many of the fertility obstacles caused by endometriosis.

What are the success rates for IVF with endometriosis?

IVF success rates for endometriosis patients vary by stage and age. Women with endometriosis generally have slightly lower success rates than those with tubal factor infertility, but IVF remains highly effective. Specialized protocols and pre-treatment can optimize outcomes, with many achieving success rates comparable to other infertility diagnoses.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Common symptoms include painful periods, heavy bleeding, pelvic pain during sex or bowel movements, chronic bloating, digestive issues, and difficulty getting pregnant. However, some women have no symptoms despite having endometriosis, which is why it's sometimes discovered during infertility evaluation.

Endometriosis & Fertility: Causes & Treatment Options

Endometriosis & Fertility

Diagnosis and treatment options for your fertility journey.

Endometriosis is one of the most common and often overlooked causes of infertility. At Advanced Fertility Center of Texas, we specialize in identifying and treating endometriosis-related infertility using a personalized, science-driven approach. Whether you have painful periods, unexplained fertility struggles, or a confirmed diagnosis, our team is here to help uncover the root cause and create a clear path forward.

How Endometriosis Affects Fertility

Endometriosis may reduce your chances of getting pregnant in several ways:

Inflamed or blocked fallopian tubes
Ovarian cysts (endometriomas) that damage egg quality
Pelvic adhesions that distort reproductive anatomy
Inflammatory environment that prevents implantation
Hormonal disruption affecting ovulation and uterine receptivity

Common Symptoms (Even Without a Diagnosis)

Do any of these sound familiar?

Painful periods or heavy bleeding
Pelvic pain during sex or bowel movements
Chronic bloating or digestive issues
Difficulty getting pregnant despite regular cycles
Prior history of ovarian cysts, fibroids, or "unexplained infertility"

Minimally Invasive Treatment

Conservative approaches to manage endometriosis while preserving and optimizing fertility potential.

Treatment Options:

Hormonal support to regulate cycles and reduce inflammation
Strategic use of GnRH agonists or other medications to suppress endometrial activity before IVF
Anti-inflammatory protocols and antioxidant therapy through Lisanne Wellness

Fertility-Focused Surgery

We offer access to expert laparoscopic surgeons when removal of endometriosis lesions or cysts is needed to improve IVF or IUI outcomes.

Surgery is often considered for:

Endometriomas (ovarian cysts)
Tubal obstruction
Pelvic adhesions or frozen pelvis
Failed IVF due to suspected pelvic disease

IVF with Endometriosis-Specific Protocols

We treat many patients who have failed IVF elsewhere due to unrecognized or undertreated endometriosis.

Our Specialized Approach:

Freeze-All IVF cycles to bypass inflammation during fresh transfer
Tailored stimulation protocols to protect egg quality
Estrogen priming and thin lining support
Embryo biopsy with PGT-A when needed

Integrative Fertility Support

In collaboration with Lisanne Wellness Center, we offer functional and lifestyle-based support to reduce inflammation, optimize the uterine environment, and improve implantation outcomes.

Programs may include:

Anti-inflammatory nutrition
Endometrial microbiome support
Acupuncture and lymphatic drainage
Targeted supplement protocols

Take the Next Step

Trying to conceive with endometriosis? Learn how Advanced Fertility Center of Texas diagnoses and treats endometriosis-related infertility with IVF and wellness support.

Endometriosis & Fertility