Endometriosis and Fertility: What Every Filipino Woman Needs to Know
“Normal na sakit lang ba ito?” (Is this just normal pain?)
Many Filipino women ask themselves this question every month. They endure painful periods, heavy bleeding, and discomfort during sex—thinking it’s just part of being a woman.
But for 1 in 10 women, these symptoms point to endometriosis.
And here’s what many don’t know: Endometriosis can affect your fertility.
This guide explains the connection between endometriosis and fertility, and what you can do to protect your chances of having a baby.
🔬 What Is Endometriosis?
In simple terms: Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of your uterus grows outside of it.
Where it can grow:
- On the ovaries
- On the fallopian tubes
- On the outside of the uterus
- On the bladder or bowel
- In rare cases, on other organs
What happens: This misplaced tissue behaves like normal uterine lining—it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. But unlike normal tissue, it has nowhere to go. This causes inflammation, scarring, and adhesions (sticky tissue that binds organs together).
🤰 How Endometriosis Affects Fertility
Not every woman with endometriosis will have difficulty conceiving. But for many, endo can interfere with pregnancy in several ways:
| Mechanism | What Happens |
| Blocked tubes | Scar tissue and adhesions can block fallopian tubes, preventing egg and sperm from meeting |
| Ovarian damage | Endometriomas (cysts on ovaries) can destroy healthy ovarian tissue, reducing egg supply |
| Inflammation | Chronic inflammation creates a toxic environment for eggs, sperm, and embryos |
| Implantation issues | Inflammation can make the uterine lining less receptive to a fertilized egg |
| Egg quality | Studies suggest endometriosis may affect egg quality, not just quantity |
The good news: Many women with endometriosis DO get pregnant—with or without medical help.
📊 Endometriosis Stages and Fertility
Endometriosis is classified into 4 stages based on location, extent, and depth of tissue growth:
| Stage | Severity | Impact on Fertility |
| Stage 1 | Minimal | Minimal direct impact |
| Stage 2 | Mild | Mild impact |
| Stage 3 | Moderate | Moderate impact |
| Stage 4 | Severe | Significant impact |
Important note: Stage does not always predict fertility outcome. Some women with Stage 4 conceive naturally. Some with Stage 1 struggle. Each case is unique.
🩺 Should You Consider Fertility Preservation?
If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis—especially if you’re planning to delay childbearing—consider discussing egg freezing with your doctor.
Why?
- Endometriosis can slowly damage ovarian tissue over time
- Surgery to remove endometriomas may reduce ovarian reserve
- Freezing eggs now preserves your fertility at its current state
Many Filipino women with endometriosis choose to freeze their eggs in their late 20s or early 30s as a backup plan.
💊 Treatment Options for Endometriosis-Related Infertility
| Option | How It Helps |
| Laparoscopic surgery | Removes visible endo tissue and adhesions; can improve natural conception rates |
| Ovulation induction + IUI | For mild endo with no tubal blockage; increases chances per cycle |
| IVF | Bypasses many endo-related barriers; highest success rates for moderate-severe endo |
| Egg freezing | Preserves fertility before potential disease progression or surgery |
What about medication? Birth control pills, GnRH agonists, and other hormonal medications can manage endo symptoms but do not improve fertility. In fact, they temporarily prevent pregnancy.
🌸 Living with Endometriosis While Trying to Conceive
Tips for managing symptoms during your fertility journey:
- Track everything: Record pain patterns, cycle changes, and symptoms
- Find an endo-friendly OB: Look for a doctor who listens and believes you
- Consider pain management: Heat packs, gentle exercise, acupuncture
- Join support groups: Connecting with other Filipino women with endo reduces isolation
- Be patient with yourself: The journey may take longer—that’s not your fault
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get pregnant naturally with endometriosis?
A: Yes. Many women with endometriosis conceive naturally. It depends on the severity and location of the disease.
Q: Does pregnancy cure endometriosis?
A: Temporarily. Pregnancy pauses menstrual cycles, which can reduce symptoms. But endo often returns after giving birth.
Q: Should I have surgery before trying IVF?
A: It depends. For large endometriomas or significant pain, surgery may help. For mild endo, going directly to IVF may be better. Your doctor will advise.
Q: Does endometriosis affect male partners?
A: No. Endometriosis only affects the person with the condition. But the journey affects both partners emotionally.
Q: Where can I find endometriosis support in the Philippines?
A: Many online communities exist. At Alpha Fertility Centre, we also offer counseling and support groups for women with endo.
📞 Take the First Step
You don’t have to suffer in silence. If you have painful periods, pain during sex, or difficulty conceiving—endometriosis could be the cause.
At Alpha Fertility Centre Philippines, we specialize in diagnosing and treating endometriosis-related infertility.
Schedule a consultation with our fertility specialists now! | Call: +63 999 885 4616 | Makati • Quezon City
