Endometriosis and IVF: What Makes Treatment Different?
Posted on March 27th, 2025
For those with endometriosis, the path to parenthood can look a little different, but fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) offer a promising solution. Endometriosis can affect fertility in several ways, from impacting egg quality to creating a less receptive uterine environment. IVF helps bypass some of these challenges by fertilizing eggs in a lab before transferring an embryo into the uterus. Understanding how IVF differs for those with endometriosis can help you make informed decisions about your fertility journey.
How Endometriosis Impacts the IVF Process
Endometriosis can affect fertility in several ways, from causing inflammation that impacts egg quality to creating a less receptive uterine environment. Because of these challenges, individuals with endometriosis may need a more tailored IVF approach. Fertility specialists often adjust protocols to improve egg retrieval outcomes, enhance embryo implantation, and manage symptoms throughout the process.
Before starting IVF, your doctor will evaluate your ovarian reserve, hormone levels, and the severity of your endometriosis. Depending on your unique situation, they may recommend medical therapy or surgery before beginning treatment. While the general IVF process remains the same, individuals with endometriosis may experience differences at key stages:
- Ovarian Stimulation: Some individuals with endometriosis have a reduced ovarian reserve, meaning they may not produce as many eggs in response to fertility medications. Your doctor may choose a specific protocol – such as an antagonist or long down-regulation approach – to optimize egg quality and minimize symptom flare-ups.
- Egg Retrieval: Endometriosis-related ovarian cysts (endometriomas) can sometimes complicate egg retrieval. Your specialist will carefully assess the best approach to maximize egg yield while avoiding unnecessary discomfort.
- Embryo Transfer: Inflammation and uterine lining abnormalities associated with endometriosis can sometimes make implantation more difficult. Some doctors recommend additional treatments, such as immune-modulating therapies or a “freeze-all” approach to allow the body to recover before transfer.
How Endometriosis Affects IVF Success Rates
Research on IVF success rates for individuals with endometriosis has shown mixed results. Some studies indicate that with the right treatment plan, success rates are comparable to those without endometriosis. Others suggest that severe endometriosis may lower implantation rates due to increased inflammation or poor egg quality. The good news is that many people with endometriosis go on to have successful pregnancies with IVF, especially when their treatment plan is carefully customized to address their specific challenges.
Managing Endometriosis Symptoms During an IVF Cycle
For some individuals, the IVF process can temporarily worsen endometriosis symptoms due to the use of estrogen-containing medications. If you experience increased pain or discomfort, your doctor may recommend additional medications to help manage symptoms throughout your cycle. Lifestyle adjustments, such as eating an anti-inflammatory diet and maintaining gentle physical activity, may also help alleviate discomfort.
Start Your IVF Journey with Expert Endometriosis Care
IVF can be a highly effective fertility treatment for individuals with endometriosis, but a personalized approach is key. At Aspire HFI, our fertility specialists understand the unique challenges that endometriosis presents and will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment at our Houston, Willowbrook, Cypress, Katy, Sugar Land, Pearland, The Woodlands, Memorial City, Beaumont, Kingwood, or Clear Lake locations.
