--- title: "Endometriosis and Fertility: Can You Still Get Pregnant?" date: 2024-06-26 author: "HSFC Kenya" featured_image: "https://hsfckenya.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Endometriosis-and-Fertility-Can-You-Still-Get-Pregnant.png.webp" categories: - name: "Female Infertility" url: "/resource-library/articles/category/female-infertility.md" - name: "Treatments and Services" url: "/resource-library/articles/category/treatments-and-services.md" --- # Endometriosis and Fertility: Can You Still Get Pregnant? Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic tissues. This misplaced tissue can cause inflammation, scar tissue, and adhesions, which may impair fertility by blocking reproductive structures and making it harder for eggs and sperm to meet. Research suggests that about one-third to one-half of people with endometriosis may struggle to conceive naturally, though many still do achieve pregnancy, especially with medical support like surgery or fertility treatments. Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining. This misplaced tissue responds to the menstrual cycle, thickening and shedding each month, but has nowhere to exit the body. Over time, it can cause inflammation, scar tissue, adhesions (tissue sticking together), cysts, and pain, all of which can interfere with reproductive anatomy and function. **Why Endometriosis Can Affect Fertility** Infertility may become more likely with advancing stages of disease, though people with mild disease may still conceive naturally without difficulty. Endometriosis can reduce fertility through several mechanisms: - Ovarian cysts (endometriomas): These cysts can interfere with egg release and normal ovarian function. - Adhesions and scar tissue: the excess tissue and scars can distort pelvic anatomy, making it harder for eggs and sperm to meet or for the embryo to travel to the uterus. - Reduced egg quality: Some research shows that endometriosis may affect the quality of eggs. - Pain during intercourse: Severe pain can reduce sexual activity, which can indirectly reduce chances of conception. **Can You Get Pregnant with Endometriosis?** Studies suggest that about 35–50% of individuals with endometriosis have some difficulty conceiving naturally within a year of trying, particularly as the severity of the disease increases. Doctors typically recommend attempting natural conception for about six months (rather than the usual 12 months for those without endometriosis) before consulting a [fertility specialist](https://hsfckenya.com/why-us/meet-the-team/), particularly in people under 35. Those older than 35 or with known fertility risk factors may be advised to consult a fertility specialist sooner. **Fertility Treatment Options** If natural conception is challenging: - Intrauterine insemination ([IUI](https://hsfckenya.com/treatments/intrauterine-insemination-iui/)) may be used for mild to moderate endometriosis. - In vitro fertilisation ([IVF](https://hsfckenya.com/treatments/in-vitro-fertilisation-ivf/)) often provides the best chance of pregnancy for those with moderate to severe disease or other infertility factors. IVF success rates in people with endometriosis are similar to those of other causes of infertility, at around ~22% per cycle, though this varies with age, severity, and other factors. **Role of Surgery** [Surgery](https://hsfckenya.com/treatments/surgical-procedures/) for endometriosis (e.g., laparoscopic removal of endometrial lesions) is frequently performed to reduce pain and may improve fertility in some cases, but it’s not a guaranteed cure. Recurrence rates are significant (20–50% within five years), and surgery is not always beneficial for fertility, especially in severe cases. Decisions about surgery must carefully weigh potential benefits against risks and should be based on the individual’s specific condition. **Pregnancy and Endometriosis** Many people with endometriosis go on to have successful, healthy pregnancies, especially with appropriate prenatal care. However, the condition is associated with higher risks of certain pregnancy complications, including: - Miscarriage: increased likelihood compared to those without endometriosis - Ectopic pregnancy: higher risk due to possible tubal involvement - Gestational diabetes: elevated risk requiring monitoring and management - High blood pressure disorders: Including hypertension and preeclampsia, which may need close maternal-foetal monitoring - Preterm birth and low birth weight: slightly increased risks compared with those without endometriosis **Does Pregnancy Affect Endometriosis?** Though higher progesterone levels during pregnancy can temporarily reduce symptoms for some, pregnancy is not a cure for endometriosis. Symptoms often return after pregnancy, or once menstrual cycles resume. **Supporting Fertility and Pregnancy Success** To support fertility in the context of endometriosis, clinicians often recommend: - Early evaluation of fertility potential - Timely fertility treatments when appropriate - Surgery in select cases for pain or fertility improvement - Careful prenatal monitoring due to slightly elevated pregnancy risks - Joining endometriosis support groups and having ongoing discussions with healthcare providers can also help with decision-making and emotional support. **Summary** Endometriosis can make conception more challenging and is linked to a higher risk of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, preterm birth, and other complications; however, pregnancy is still possible, even in more advanced cases, and many people with the condition go on to have healthy pregnancies. With personalised medical support, timely fertility treatment when needed, and close monitoring throughout conception and pregnancy, positive outcomes are very achievable. This [article](https://www.verywellhealth.com/pregnancy-with-endometriosis-4123852) by Very Well Health gives further information on endometriosis and fertility. ![](https://hsfckenya.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Endometriosis-and-Fertility-Can-You-Still-Get-Pregnant-3.png)