How to Support your Fertility with Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a gynecological disease characterized by the presence and growth of tissue similar to that of the uterine lining (the endometrium) on areas outside of the uterus. It is an extremely common disease that affects up to 1 in 10 women, and it is estimated that about 50% of people that struggle with infertility have endometriosis. Although most people with endometriosis will be able to conceive without problems, up to 40% may struggle with infertility. 

So how does endometriosis impair fertility? It does this through physical obstructions (like blocking tubes or adhering the ovaries to the pelvic wall preventing sperm from reaching the egg), creating inflammation and oxidative stress that harms egg quality, and disrupting the immune system which may increase the risk of infertility and miscarriage.

The good news is that assisted reproductive techniques like IUI and IVF can significantly improve chances of success. One large systemic review and meta-analysis of 36 studies on endometriosis and IVF concluded that women with and without endometriosis have comparable ART outcomes in terms of live births.

What about surgery? Overall, the research confirms that surgery improves the fertility rates for those with endometriosis. The natural pregnancy rate for those with all types of endometriosis within 3 years after surgery was 47%, while another study showed that 73% were able to conceive within a year. Those who had excision surgery for more severe endometriosis were 2.45 times more likely to conceive during IVF than those that had endometriosis and did not undergo surgery. Another study of those with stage III and IV endometriosis with endometriomas showed that 54% were able to conceive a year post laparoscopic surgery and cystectomy (removal of endometriomas). Of the patients that were not able to conceive within a year, 30% conceived using IVF.

There are also so many things you can do to naturally and holistically improve your fertility with endometriosis. In my practice, I focus on hormone balance and detoxification, inflammation reduction, egg quality support, and nervous system regulation. Given the typical estrogen dominance associated with endometriosis, it becomes essential to support the liver and digestive system to effectively detoxify excess estrogen levels. Encouraging healthy ovulation to boost progesterone production for balancing estrogen is equally crucial. I find that incorporating a well-rounded approach involving diet, supplements, and acupuncture proves to be effective in achieving this goal. Because endometriosis is primarily an inflammatory disease, anything you can do to reduce inflammation is crucial. Implementing an anti-inflammatory diet, utilizing Chinese herbs, supplements, and acupuncture all play a significant role. Moreover, modulating the immune system through acupuncture and naturopathy can help lower inflammation and potentially decrease the risk of miscarriage or implantation issues. Supporting egg quality with acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress to ensure healthy embryos. Regulating the nervous system through acupuncture, mindfulness practices, or adaptogenic support can be incredibly helpful in reducing the symptoms of endometriosis and improving fertility.

As someone with stage 3 endometriosis, I am personally very familiar with the pain and symptoms of endometriosis. I have dedicated a huge part of my practice in researching and treating patients with endometriosis. If you would like to find out what your endometriosis treatment plan may look like, feel free to book a consultation with me.

In healing,

Allison Locke, R.TCM.P FABORM OBAAM IHP