Endometriosis and Fertility: Navigating Treatment Decisions and New Research

Today we are joined by guest experts Dr. Vanessa Ross and Dr. Samantha Mooney to discuss new research on endometriosis and fertility. They explain that endometriosis affects about 1 in 7 women generally, but 1 in 3 infertile women, causing inflammation and scarring in the pelvis that can impact fertility. The experts discuss the challenging clinical dilemma of whether to recommend surgery or IVF for patients with moderate to severe endometriosis, noting there's currently no clear evidence supporting one approach over the other.

We also learn more about their new Endometriosis Longitudinal Fertility Study (ELFs), which aims to gather data on fertility outcomes for women with endometriosis to provide better clinical guidance. They discuss how treatment decisions are often individualized based on factors like symptom severity, age, and partner fertility status. The experts express hope that within the next decade, their research will lead to clearer treatment pathways for patients with endometriosis who wish to conceive, as well as better understanding of how to ensure safe pregnancies for those who do.

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Hosts: Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi Morrison
Guests: Dr Vanessa Ross and Dr Samantha Mooney

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