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Fertility-related considerations in endometriosis

  • Special Section: The pelvic floor
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Abstract

Endometriosis and infertility often present together but the exact cause–effect mechanism of this association is unknown. Though there are several proposed mechanisms regarding the pathophysiology of endometriosis-related infertility, no one theory is universally accepted. Surgical exploration is gold standard for diagnosis but imaging modalities especially specialized ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging can highlight disease burden and aid in planning for surgical excision. Overall, medical therapy is ineffective for endometriosis-related infertility; however, surgery may be fertility enhancing in women with minimal stage disease and in women with large endometriomas. Assisted reproductive technology may be required with endometriosis-related infertility. Medically induced superovulation with intrauterine insemination is typically the first line; however, women with advanced disease may need a more aggressive form of treatment with in vitro fertilization.

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  1. Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility and Minimally Invasive, Gynecologic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55901, USA

    Zaraq Khan

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Khan, Z. Fertility-related considerations in endometriosis. Abdom Radiol 45, 1754–1761 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00261-019-02307-6

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