Endometriosis impacts female fertility through anatomical obstacles

Endometriosis is a gynecological condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterine cavity, such as on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic tissues. This tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle by thickening and bleeding; however, because it has no way to exit the body, it becomes trapped, causing local inflammation, scar tissue, and pelvic adhesions.

According to Stylianos Ivros, Director of the Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology Center at Metropolitan Hospital, the condition is often a ‘silent enemy’ that can lead to female infertility. The impact on fertility occurs through several mechanisms, including anatomical obstacles where pelvic adhesions deform the area or block the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg from meeting the sperm.