March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating people about one of the most common and often misunderstood conditions affecting reproductive health. For many individuals trying to conceive, endometriosis can play a significant role in fertility challenges. At Reach, we believe that awareness, early diagnosis, and specialized care can make a meaningful difference for patients navigating this condition.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. These growths can develop on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, and sometimes other areas in the abdomen. Like the uterine lining, this tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, which can lead to inflammation, scar tissue, and pain.
Common symptoms include:
- Painful periods (often severe)
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Pain with bowel movements or urination
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Difficulty becoming pregnant
While some individuals experience severe symptoms, others may have little to no symptoms at all, which can make diagnosis challenging.
How Endometriosis Can Affect Fertility
Endometriosis is estimated to affect about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, and studies show that 30–50% of people with endometriosis may experience infertility.
The condition can impact fertility in several ways:
Inflammation and pelvic environment
Endometriosis can create an inflammatory environment in the pelvis, which may interfere with fertilization or embryo implantation.
Scar tissue and adhesions
The condition can cause organs in the pelvis to stick together. This may block or distort the fallopian tubes, making it harder for the egg and sperm to meet.
Ovarian cysts (endometriomas)
Endometriosis can lead to cysts on the ovaries that may affect egg quality or ovarian reserve.
Hormonal and immune factors
Changes in the immune system and hormonal environment may also reduce the chances of successful conception.
Fertility Treatment Options
The good news is that many people with endometriosis are able to build their families with the right support and treatment plan.
Depending on the severity of the condition, age, and overall fertility health, treatment options may include:
Ovulation induction with intrauterine insemination (IUI)
For mild cases, medications combined with IUI can help increase the chances of fertilization.
In vitro fertilization (IVF)
IVF is often one of the most effective treatment options for individuals with moderate to severe endometriosis. By retrieving eggs directly from the ovaries and fertilizing them in the lab, IVF can bypass many of the barriers caused by the condition.
Fertility preservation
For patients diagnosed with endometriosis at a younger age, egg freezing may be an option to help protect future fertility.
Personalized care plans
Every patient’s journey is unique. A comprehensive fertility evaluation allows specialists to create a plan tailored to each individual’s needs.
When to Seek Help
If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis or suspect it may be affecting your fertility, it may be helpful to consult with a fertility specialist especially if:
- You have been trying to conceive for 12 months (or 6 months if over age 35) without success
- You experience severe pelvic pain
- You have been diagnosed with ovarian cysts or endometriosis in the past
- You have had pelvic surgery related to the condition
Early evaluation can help identify the best path forward and improve the chances of success.
Raising Awareness and Finding Support
Endometriosis Awareness Month is not only about education, it’s also about supporting those living with the condition. Many patients spend years seeking answers before receiving a diagnosis. By sharing information and encouraging open conversations about reproductive health, we can help more people access the care they need.
At Reach, our team is committed to providing compassionate, individualized care for patients facing endometriosis and fertility challenges. If you have questions about how endometriosis may impact your fertility, our specialists are here to help guide you through your options.
You are not alone and with the right support, there are many paths to building the family you envision.
