The efficacy of medical and surgical treatment of endometriosis-associated infertility and pelvic pain

This article is a review of the efficacy of medical and surgical treatment of endometriosis-associated infertility and pelvic pain. Endometriosis is the cause of pelvic pain (dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia) and infertility in more than 35% of women of reproductive age. Complete resolution of endometriosis is not yet possible but therapy has essentially three main objectives: (1) to reduce pain; (2) to increase the possibility of pregnancy; (3) to delay recurrence for as long as possible. It could be concluded that a consensus will probably never be reached on minimal and mild endometriosis. Nevertheless, because the Canadian study reported a large number of cases, we strongly support the view that visible endometriosis must be removed at the time of surgery. In cases of moderate and severe endometriosis-associated infertility, the combined approach (operative laparoscopy with GnRHa) must be considered as 'first-line' treatment. The mean pregnancy rate of 50% reported in the literature following surgery provides scientific proof that operative treatment should be undertaken first to give our patients the best chance of conceiving naturally. Copyright (C) 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel.