Q: If I have endometriosis, can I still get pregnant?
Answered by: Dr Tan Niap Hong, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, & Clinical Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Service at Prince Court Medical Centre
Endometriosis is a condition in which the lining tissue of the uterine cavity (endometrium) grows outside the uterine cavity. It can affect fertility by causing inflammation and adhesions, which may obstruct the fallopian tubes and disrupt the functions of the ovaries. Therefore, fertility is dependent on the severity of the disease.
This is why it is imperative that couples seek professional help if they face difficulties in conceiving as assisted reproductive technology has helped many women with endometriosis get pregnant. Once pregnant, the increased level of the progesterone hormone may be advantageous as it will temporarily suppress the further progression of endometriosis.
