Endometriosis is condition where in the endometrial glands (Inner lining of Uterus) start growing outside e.g. behind the uterus or around the ovaries sometimes causing cysts (Endometriomas). Abnormal presence of these glands is implicated in infertility in many ways –Inability to produce eggs, tubal dysfunction, in severe cases normal Tubo-ovarian relation is disturbed and surgery for the cysts may bring down the ovarian reserves leading on to infertility.
The gold standard for diagnosis Endometriosis is laparoscopy though late stage endometriosis can be picked up on Sonography.
Endometriosis is graded 1 to 4 depending on its severity and the tissues involved.
Dysmenorrhoea (pain during menses) and infertility are major symptoms women may approach the doctor.
Fertility Management——Expectant management i.e. waiting for few months without treatment, IUI and IVF are planned according to the Grade of Endometriosis,duration of infertility , Age and Ovarian reserves.