This page explains how Endometriosis relates to IVF treatment. All information is educational. Talk to your reproductive endocrinologist about how this condition may affect your specific situation and treatment plan.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic organs. It can cause pain, inflammation, and scarring that affect fertility. Endometriosis affects people across a spectrum from mild to severe.
How common is it?
Endometriosis affects approximately 10 percent of people with uteruses during reproductive years, and up to 30 to 50 percent of people experiencing infertility. It is significantly underdiagnosed, with many people waiting years for an accurate diagnosis.
How Endometriosis affects IVF
Endometriosis can affect egg quality, reduce ovarian reserve (especially with ovarian endometriomas), damage the uterine environment, and cause inflammation that may impair implantation. People with endometriosis may have fewer eggs retrieved and lower fertilization rates. A frozen embryo transfer after suppression of endometriosis is often recommended.
Typical IVF approach
Some clinics use a period of GnRH agonist suppression (Lupron) before starting IVF to reduce endometriosis activity. Long agonist protocols are often preferred. Surgical treatment of endometriomas before IVF may be considered, but must be weighed against the risk of damaging ovarian reserve. Post-retrieval frozen transfer in a suppressed cycle is common.
Factors that support success
- Severity of endometriosis affects outcomes: mild endometriosis has less impact than severe
- Pre-IVF suppression therapy may improve uterine receptivity
- Careful surgical planning before IVF to avoid damaging ovarian tissue
- Freeze-all strategy to allow the uterine environment to recover before transfer
- Genetic testing of embryos (PGT-A) to select the healthiest embryos for transfer
Your emotional experience matters
The medical side of infertility is only part of the story. Here is what many people in the IVF community want you to know about the emotional side of this diagnosis.
- Living with endometriosis often means years of pain, dismissal, and misdiagnosis. The emotional toll is real and significant.
- The uncertainty about how endometriosis is affecting your fertility can feel overwhelming. You deserve clear information and compassionate care.
- Many people feel angry that the diagnosis took so long. Your frustration is valid.
- Endometriosis and infertility together is a heavy burden. Seeking emotional support is not weakness. It is wisdom.
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Does endometriosis affect IVF success rates?
Endometriosis can affect IVF outcomes, but the impact depends on severity. Mild endometriosis has less effect than severe disease involving the ovaries (endometriomas) or uterus. Many people with endometriosis have successful IVF cycles. Your reproductive endocrinologist will assess your specific situation and recommend a protocol designed for your needs.
Should I have surgery to remove endometriomas before IVF?
This is a nuanced decision. While endometriomas can affect egg quality and retrieval, surgery to remove them carries a risk of damaging nearby healthy ovarian tissue, which could reduce your ovarian reserve. Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits and risks based on the size and location of any cysts.
Does endometriosis affect egg quality?
Research suggests that endometriosis, particularly when it involves the ovaries, may affect egg quality through inflammation and oxidative stress. This is one reason some clinics include antioxidant supplements in the pre-IVF plan for endometriosis patients. Ask your doctor what they recommend for your situation.
Will IVF cure or improve my endometriosis?
No. IVF treats the infertility associated with endometriosis but does not treat the underlying condition. Pregnancy sometimes provides temporary relief of endometriosis symptoms, but the condition typically returns after delivery.
Medical disclaimer: This page provides general educational information only. It is not medical advice and should not replace guidance from your doctor, nurse, or reproductive endocrinologist. Every person's treatment is unique. Always consult your care team before making any decisions about your medications or treatment plan.
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About the author
Viv
BSc, Patient Advocate
Founder, TrackMyIVF
I built TrackMyIVF because I needed it during my own journey. Every feature comes from real experience.