Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic condition affecting around 10% of all women in Germany, and it is often either not diagnosed or diagnosed very late. The most common symptoms of this condition, in addition to severe menstrual pain, include infertility.
What is endometriosis?
The term is derived from the endometrium, the uterine lining, and refers to the presence of this tissue in other parts of the female body. Endometriosis typically occurs in the ovaries, abdominal cavity, or the muscular layer of the uterus (adenomyosis uteri).
The endometrial tissue bleeds in sync with the menstrual cycle, leading to severe pain, pronounced adhesions in the abdomen, blocked fallopian tubes, and cysts on the ovaries (endometriosis cysts).
Additionally, the quality of the eggs is often reduced, and fertilization and embryo implantation are more difficult.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Endometriosis is often first detected during fertility diagnostics when investigating the cause of infertility.
A skilled ultrasound can sometimes raise a strong suspicion of an endometriosis cyst or adenomyosis uteri.
The only definitive way to diagnose endometriosis is through the detection of endometrial tissue in a biopsy obtained during laparoscopy.
How is endometriosis treated?
Since endometriosis cannot be cured by surgery or medication, it is advised to avoid surgical interventions on the ovaries via laparoscopy whenever possible.
Endometriosis treatment after completing family planning should be coordinated with a certified endometriosis center.
Endometriosis and Fertility
Women with endometriosis often face additional challenges when trying to conceive:
- Egg quality is often reduced.
- Embryos have a harder time implanting in the uterus.
Adhesions frequently occur in the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or uterus. In such cases, artificial insemination can help increase the chances of pregnancy.
Artificial Insemination for Endometriosis
Various methods can be used to assist women with endometriosis in fulfilling their desire for children. One commonly used method is in vitro fertilization (IVF). During IVF, hormonal medications are given to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. The eggs are then retrieved in a medical procedure and fertilized in the lab with the partner’s or donor’s sperm. The resulting embryos are then transferred into the woman’s uterus, where they hopefully implant and result in a pregnancy.
Cost of Artificial Insemination for Endometriosis
The cost of artificial insemination for endometriosis is generally the same as for other forms of fertility treatment. The cost largely depends on the number of attempts required to achieve pregnancy. Since fertility is highly individual and influenced by many factors, the total cost can be difficult to predict.
For more information on general fertility costs, visit our “Fertility Costs” page.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Endometriosis and Fertility
How does endometriosis affect fertility?
Endometriosis can reduce the quality of eggs or make it harder for embryos to implant in the uterus. Additionally, the pain and inflammation caused by the condition can make intercourse and conception more difficult.
Can you get pregnant with endometriosis?
Yes, it is possible to become pregnant despite endometriosis. The ability to conceive depends on the severity of the endometriosis, the extent of tissue damage, and other individual factors. Some women with mild endometriosis experience no fertility issues. In certain cases, treatment for endometriosis or assisted reproductive techniques like IVF can lead to pregnancy.
How often does endometriosis cause infertility?
The likelihood of infertility depends on various factors, including the severity of endometriosis, the woman's age, and other potential factors affecting fertility. It’s important to note that not all women with endometriosis are infertile, and there are many treatment options available to help them fulfill their desire for children. Learn more about the possibilities of artificial insemination at one of our informational evenings or seek a second opinion.