Endometriosis and Infertility

Endometriosis is a painful and frustrating condition on its own. But when you have endometriosis and are struggling to get pregnant, it can be even more upsetting. At Penn Fertility Care - Lancaster General Health, our fertility specialists have extensive experience evaluating and treating endometriosis and infertility. We work together to build a care plan that helps you achieve your dream of building a family.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when the tissue that lines your uterus, called the endometrium, grows outside your uterus. It may appear on your ovaries, fallopian tubes or other organs in your pelvic cavity. It's most common in women in their 30s and 40s. The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown.

Am I at Risk for Endometriosis?

You may be more likely to develop endometriosis if you:

• Have a family history of endometriosis
• Have a short menstrual cycle (less than 27 days)
• Have heavy periods
• Started your period at a young age (before 11)

What Are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?

Symptoms of endometriosis may include:

• Bleeding or spotting
• Digestive problems
• Infertility
• Pelvic pain or cramps

How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

We offer comprehensive infertility testing at our clinic, as well as exams to diagnose endometriosis. Our care team offers many tests right in our clinic, so you receive a prompt, convenient evaluation and fast results. Tests for endometriosis may include:

• Pelvic exam: A pelvic exam is a manual exam to check your vagina, cervix, uterus and ovaries for abnormal growths such as scar tissue.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound uses a tool called a transducer to produce sound waves that create images of your organs. We may do a pelvic ultrasound (sonogram) or transvaginal ultrasound to look for signs of endometriosis.
• Diagnostic laparoscopy: Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that takes place at the hospital. We make a tiny cut near your belly button and insert a tool with a video camera and light into your abdomen. The laparoscope allows us to examine the outside of your uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes for fibroids, cysts or endometriosis.

Can You Get Pregnant With Endometriosis?

Endometriosis can lead to scarring and abnormal growths on your ovaries and fallopian tubes, which may affect your fertility. While some women with the condition can conceive, others struggle to get pregnant. Experts suspect that up to half of all women who struggle with infertility may have endometriosis .