Endo + TTC

[joeyme]

Hi, I have been TTC for 3yrs with no success. We are about to start IVF, had some tests and 2 appts with FS. I had a Lap for Endo this time last year but I'm still TTC. DH tests all ok, not sure what is going on. Can anyone tell me how Endo actually effects fertility? I understand what it is, just not sure why it effects fertility this much.... confused! Cheers

[onthefly]

Hi Joeyme

You can check this thread out for support and advice from others undergoing IVF:

LT TTC & Assisted Conception

We also have an Endo/PCOS support forum, where you may find useful information.

All the best

[Aurian]

Hi Joeyme,

I'm in a very similar situation (endo, TTC and about to start IVF).

I was told in our case by the FS (hubby's tests all came back normal, as did my blood tests) that endo - both growth and post-surgery - can cause scar tissue which can make implantation difficult. In my case it was also discovered that one of my fallopian tubes was blocked - most likely by scar tissue - and the other is sluggish. Definitely a contributing factor.

Did you have a HSG or Levovist test? (where they inject the dye through your uterus into the tubes)

[joeyme]

Thanks for your replies!

Yes I had some dye studies done, one of my tubes flowed OK but the other was sluggish. I have been alot of reading about how endo effects fertility, it is summed up well in the 2 paragraphs below. My doctor seems to think I might have had some endo return since I had my op last yr or that some was missed. I guess we keep battleing on! Good luck...!

"Endometriosis causes infertility in different ways. If the endometriosis damages the tubes and the ovaries then this will significantly reduce the woman’s ability to conceive. This will significantly alter the movement of the egg and sperm.

Even if the tubes and ovaries are not damaged then the endometriosis can affect the movement of sperm, egg pick up by the tube, egg fertilisation, embryo growth and implantation."