During the preconception period, if women have endometriosis, it means that their fertility ability is greatly reduced compared to normal women. In cases of mild symptoms, some patients may not experience any menstrual pain, thus making it easier to overlook the severity of the disease while threatening the overall uterine health environment.

The endometrium is a protective tissue layer that covers the inner wall of the uterus. If it grows outside the uterine cavity, such as in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic cavity, it can be diagnosed as endometriosis, with symptoms typically including menstrual pain, pain during intercourse, and infertility.

How does endometriosis cause infertility?

1. Ovulation disorders

It is known that the endometrium is an important site for the implantation and development of fertilized eggs. When endometrial tissue grows abnormally, fertilized eggs cannot attach to the uterine wall. Normally, the endometrial blood vessels without a fertilized egg will continuously contract, become ischemic, necrotic, and eventually shed as menstrual blood. However, endometrial tissue growing outside the ovaries cannot shed, forming cysts or scars, leading to ovulation disorders and affecting conception.

2. Luteal phase defect

Compared to normal women, patients with endometriosis have fewer LH receptors on their follicles and luteal cells, resulting in insufficient hormone secretion from the corpus luteum, which prevents timely transformation of the endometrium and affects conception.

3. Autoimmune reaction

After successful fertilization of the egg and sperm, the fertilized egg needs to be transported to the uterine cavity for implantation through the normal peristalsis of the fallopian tube. However, in patients with endometriosis, B lymphocytes in the body produce anti-endometrial antibodies that interfere with the early transportation and implantation of the fertilized egg. 

Additionally, the presence of endometriotic lesions in the abdominal cavity leads to the aggregation of a large number of macrophages that can engulf sperm and interfere with the fertilized egg, causing infertility.

How to Improve Pregnancy Rate in Endometriosis Patients through IVF?

Endometriosis is a gynecological disease that is relatively difficult to treat. Herbal medicine Fuyan Pill can improve the pelvic environment, reduce inflammatory reactions, promote blood circulation, regulate endocrine functions, and thereby improve the infertility symptoms of patients with endometriosis. Its medicinal ingredients have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, blood-activating, stasis-removing, and menstrual-regulating effects, which help restore the function of the uterus and ovaries, increasing the chances of conception.

If pregnancy cannot be achieved after medication treatment, or if scar tissue obstructs natural conception, choosing IVF is an ideal option.

If the degree of endometriosis is mild, doctors may manage the condition through anti-endometriosis drugs and laparoscopic surgery. After relief, implantation during the most ideal time can achieve a very high success rate in IVF.

How to Improve the Uterine Environment for IVF Preparation?

1. Exercise

Regular walks, gentle exercises, yoga, etc., can improve uterine blood circulation speed, promote qi and blood circulation, and effectively improve endocrine function.

2. Quit Smoking and Drinking

Before undergoing IVF, couples should quit smoking and drinking at least three months or six months in advance. Long-term smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke not only affects female ovarian function but also damages egg quality. It also affects male sperm quality.

As women age, ovarian function gradually declines, affecting both the quantity and quality of eggs, especially after the age of 38. It is recommended that female friends undergo regular physical examinations and take care of their health. For those considering IVF, it's best to plan ahead and not delay too long.

Recommended Readings:

Can Low Estrogen Cause Endometritis?

Menstrual Cramps are Normal for Girls? Beware of Endometriosis

Can You Get Endometriosis Without the Uterus?