Will Frozen Embryo Transfer Work With PCOS or Endometriosis?
Both PCOS and endometriosis can negatively affect a woman’s fertility. Many women would like to know about frozen embryo transfer and how it will work with either of these conditions. Following is an explanation of each disorder and the possibility of a successful frozen embryo transfer.
Understanding PCOS
PCOS is a type of hormone imbalance which affects around 1 in 10 women in the US. This condition can cause periods to be heavy, irregular or to stop altogether. PCOS can also cause pelvic pain, acne, weight gain, and hirsutism. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. The condition affects a woman’s ovaries and prevents them from producing an egg.
PCOS and frozen embryo transfer
Research shows that women who are infertile because of PCOS have a better chance of a live birth after IVF with frozen embryos compared to those who undergo IVF with fresh embryos. One of the disadvantages is that women with PCOS also have a greater risk of preeclampsia when undergoing a frozen embryo transfer rather than a fresh transfer.
Understanding endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in which the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus into the lower abdomen or pelvis. Endometriosis can cause menstrual cramps, abdominal pain, and can lead to painful sexual intercourse. It may also cause infertility.
Between 30%-50% of women with endometriosis have trouble becoming pregnant. This is because of a weakening in the lining of the uterus, making implantation of the embryo difficult. Endometriosis may also cause scar tissue or tumors that cause blocked or damaged ovaries or fallopian tubes. Even if a woman with endometriosis becomes pregnant naturally, there is a higher possibility of miscarriage.
Endometriosis and frozen embryo transfer
Typically women with endometriosis have some difficulty becoming pregnant. IVF is often the most recommended option. Women should be aware, however, that the hormone drugs used to stimulate ovulation to ready eggs for retrieval may also exacerbate symptoms of endometriosis. IVF egg retrieval uses hormones, a rise in estrogen can cause endometrial tissues to become inflamed.
This is an important consideration for women who are suffering from PCOS or endometriosis and trying to get pregnant. Thanks to improvements in fertility treatments over the past 40 years women have previously would have had great difficulty starting a family now have options available that have proven successful outcomes.
