Seven ways to preserve female fertility in patients with endometriosis

Abstract

Endometriosis is a known cause of infertility in reproductive-aged women. Most treatment plans target pain caused by the disease, and may overlook the possibility that the patient may want to conceive. This review assesses current studies on fertility preservation in endometriosis patients and outlines the seven best methods to preserve fertility. We propose the following seven ways to preserve fertility in patients with endometriosis: choosing the best surgical techniques; avoiding unnecessary surgery; measuring ovarian reserve before surgery; emergency IVF before laparoscopic surgery; using a gonadotropin- releasing hormone agonist; maintaining a healthy lifestyle; and cryopreservation. Each endometriotic patient should be assessed on an individual basis, using these seven methods as guidelines, in order to maximize fertility preservation. © 2012 Expert Reviews Ltd.