The Overlooked Link Between Endometriosis and Recurrent Miscarriage – News18
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Endometriosis is not just a fertility issue—it is an independent disease that requires active, research-based intervention
While clinics tend to focus on egg quality and hormone levels, the inflammatory and structural impact of endometriosis remains underrecognized.
Endometriosis is often an undiagnosed contributor to recurrent miscarriage, frequently overlooked in fertility treatments. While clinics tend to focus on egg quality and hormone levels, the inflammatory and structural impact of endometriosis remains underrecognized. Even in its subclinical form, the condition can lead to implantation failure and an increased risk of pregnancy loss. A comprehensive treatment strategy that includes excision surgery and hormone therapy is essential for improving pregnancy outcomes.
The Structural and Inflammatory Impact of Endometriosis
According to Dr. Sanjay Patel, an endometriosis surgeon, the structural and inflammatory effects of endometriosis are largely ignored by fertility specialists. “Endometriosis is perhaps the most underdiagnosed etiology of repeated miscarriage, yet fertility clinics will ignore its structural and inflammatory effects. Instead, they target the egg and the hormone level exclusively, without even identifying root problems that impede pregnancy,” he explains.
Dr. Patel highlights adenomyosis, a common condition that often accompanies endometriosis, as a further complication. “Adenomyosis hardens the uterus, making it more susceptible to contractions, which increases miscarriage rates.”
Even in cases where patients experience little or no pain, silent or minimal endometriosis can still significantly impact fertility. “Small degrees of uterine inflammation can create an unfavorable environment for implantation,” Dr. Patel says. “Although excision surgery is the best treatment, it has to be done properly. Many gynecologists leave behind disease remnants, allowing inflammation to persist.”
Beyond IVF: A Holistic Approach to Treatment
IVF is frequently offered as a solution for endometriosis-related infertility, but Dr. Patel warns that it is not a cure-all. “Ongoing inflammation in the endometrium from untreated endometriosis can continue to cause miscarriages,” he notes. “The optimal results are achieved with a multidisciplinary treatment plan involving excision surgery, hormone therapy, and fertility treatment. Treating endometriosis in a holistic manner is important to enhance pregnancy rates and prevent the anguish of repeated loss.”
Endometriosis as a Systemic Disease
Dr. Smeet Patel, an endometriosis specialist, Mayflower Women’s Hospital, Ahmedabad, emphasizes that endometriosis is more than just a reproductive disorder. “Endometriosis is a multifaceted endocrine and immune disease that disrupts critical processes necessary for pregnancy,” he explains. “Progesterone resistance, immune system disruption, and persistent inflammation render the environment unfit for conceiving, leading to miscarriage.”
Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) and adenomyosis further complicate pregnancy by causing uterine dysfunction. “These conditions induce abnormal contractions and structural deformities that impact implantation and gestation,” Dr. Smeet Patel adds.
He stresses the importance of comprehensive screening for endometriosis in cases of unexplained infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss. “Failure to recognize this systemic disorder will cause treatment delay and reduce the chances of conception.”
The Role of Excision Surgery
Excision surgery remains the most effective intervention for enhancing uterine receptivity, according to Dr. Smeet Patel. “It removes diseased tissue, relieves inflammation, and restores hormonal homeostasis,” he explains. However, long-term success depends on an integrative approach. “Surgical intervention must be paired with hormonal regulation and personalized fertility management to ensure the best possible outcomes.”
The Need for Greater Awareness
Dr. Smeet Patel underscores the necessity of considering endometriosis in cases of recurrent miscarriage. “Repeat miscarriages of unclear etiology always warrant a screen for endometriosis,” he advises. “Proper diagnosis and focused excision surgery can significantly improve uterine receptivity and pregnancy outcomes, offering renewed hope to those struggling with infertility.”
Endometriosis is not just a fertility issue—it is an independent disease that requires active, research-based intervention. By adopting a broader, more integrative approach to treatment, healthcare providers can help reduce miscarriage rates and improve the chances of a successful pregnancy for those affected by this often-overlooked condition.
