Minimal Endometriosis: Does It Affect Fertility?

Dear Dr. Ron:

This question is in reference to a 36 year old woman that needs to know if there is any other way to concieve once the tubes have been clipped and burned?

Thanks,

Brenda

Dear Brenda,

Thanks for your inquiry.  There are two major approaches to achieving fertility after a tubal ligation:  1) tubal reanastamosis surgery (i.e. tubal reattachment) and 2) in vitro fertilization (IVF).  The first procedure is
dependent on the ability of the surgeon to remove the clipped and burned portions, and to reattach the healthy ends.  There are a few surgeons around the country who can accomplish this via laparoscopy, thus avoiding extended
hospital stay.  IVF avoids surgery by detouring the blocked tubes; egg and sperm are united in a culture dish, with the fertilized egg placed back in the uterus at the appropriate time.

Specialists trained in reproductive endocrinology and infertility should be able to provide you with more details, as well as the expertise to carry out either procedure.

Sincerely yours,

--Dr. Ron

References:

Dr. Feinberg would like to answer the numerous questions he receives related to PCOS and fertility. However, the best medical advice you could obtain comes from your personal physician who knows your medical history best. A list of Board-certified reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialists throughout the country can be found at http://www.socrei.org