Fertility
How long to try conceiving before infertility evaluation?
The short answer
If you suspect or know you have endometriosis, we generally recommend a fertility evaluation after about 6 months of trying naturally. We suggest evaluation sooner if you’re over 35, have severe symptoms, or have been told you may have ovarian cysts or tubal involvement.
If you know or suspect you have endometriosis, we generally recommend a fertility evaluation after about 6 months of trying to conceive naturally. Endometriosis can affect ovulation, egg quality, tubal function, and pelvic anatomy, so waiting too long can delay answers and treatment options.
We also suggest reaching out sooner if you’re over 35, have severe symptoms (especially significant pelvic pain), or have been told you may have ovarian cysts or tubal involvement. Our team can help clarify which factors may be limiting conception and discuss next steps based on your goals and timeline.
Where to go from here
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Struggling to Conceive? Get Help Now
If you've been trying for 6 months with endometriosis, don't wait to seek a fertility evaluation. Our specialists understand how endometriosis impacts fertility and can guide you toward effective treatment options.
Questions people ask next
All fertility questionsWhich infertility tests matter most with endometriosis?
The most useful infertility tests for endometriosis typically include ovarian reserve labs, a pelvic ultrasound, a test to check whether the fallopian tubes are open, and a semen analysis. Your symptom pattern and surgical history help put results in context.
How is infertility from endometriosis treated?
Treatment depends on how endometriosis is affecting your fertility. Excision surgery can remove disease and restore anatomy when fertility is physically blocked. Fertility treatment is sometimes the next step after surgery and sometimes the first step.
When is IVF recommended for endometriosis?
IVF is often recommended for endometriosis when older age or reduced ovarian reserve makes time a key factor, or when fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged. It may also be the next step after unsuccessful less invasive fertility treatment or when male-factor infertility is present.
Can endometriosis surgery improve my chances of conceiving?
Excision surgery can improve the chances of conceiving for some patients with endometriosis, particularly when removing superficial disease helps restore more normal pelvic anatomy. Outcomes vary, and surgery on the ovaries can affect ovarian reserve.
Further reading
Making a Fertility Plan: Working with Your Endometriosis Care Team
Learn how to create a patient-centered fertility plan with your endometriosis care team, addressing symptoms, treatment, and desired timelines.
Trying to Conceive With Endometriosis Without Making Symptoms Explode
Discover how to navigate pregnancy with endometriosis while managing symptoms. Explore safe options and recent research on fertility and treatment.
How Endometriosis Contributes to Infertility
How endometriosis leads to infertility: pathogenesis; effects on gametes, tubes, and endometrium; and treatments (expectant care, surgery, and ART).
