Endometriosis, endometrioma and ART results: current understanding and recommended practices

Publication date: Available online 15 February 2018 Source:Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology Author(s): Federico Prefumo, A. Cristina Rossi Endometriosis and infertility are linked in a complex relationship, and a number of different pathogenetic mechanisms may relate the two. Endometriosis is diagnosed in 6-8% of women undergoing ART. Women with endometriosis appear to have similar ART outcomes compared to controls in terms of live birth rates, despite a lower oocyte quality. Laparoscopy should not be routinely performed before ART with the only aim to diagnose mild or moderate endometriosis, but if the latter is found surgical removal can be considered as it might improve pregnancy rates. In case of more severe forms of the disease (endometrioma, deep infiltrating endometriosis) the benefits of surgery prior to ART are uncertain, and must be balanced against risks. Management decisions should be individualized based on patient choice, age, associated symptoms, and the risk of repeat surgery.
Source: Best Practice and Research Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology - Category: OBGYN Source Type: research