Can Women with Adenomyosis Pursue IVF for Conception?

Adenomyosis is a benign condition of the uterus characterized by progressively worsening dysmenorrhea. Women with adenomyosis experience lower abdominal pain during menstruation, with the pain intensity often affecting their daily life and activities. A B-ultrasound examination typically reveals an enlarged uterus, significant thickening of the uterine muscle layer, and irregular echoes, all characteristic signs of adenomyosis.

This condition's pathology and physiology involve the endometrium becoming embedded in the uterine muscle layer due to certain factors. During each menstrual cycle, this embedded endometrium sheds and bleeds. However, the ensuing uterine contractions lead to abdominal pain because it is trapped within the uterine muscle layer. The pain can sometimes become unbearable, necessitating interventions such as uterine resection. Alternatively, conservative approaches like using a Mirena intrauterine device or traditional Chinese medicine treatments like Fuyan Pill can relieve pain.

Adenomyosis primarily impacts fertility through its effects on the fallopian tubes. Endometrial glands and stroma infiltrate the uterine muscle layer, leading to localized or diffuse lesions. Over time, these lesions can extend to the uterine horn, ultimately compressing the fallopian tube openings, resulting in tubal obstruction and infertility.

The management of adenomyosis typically includes medication and surgery, with the choice of treatment contingent upon factors such as a woman's symptoms, fertility requirements, and individual considerations.

Can women with adenomyosis pursue in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

Yes, women with adenomyosis can undergo IVF to aid in conception, and numerous successful IVF cases involving patients with adenomyosis have been reported. Before commencing an IVF cycle, patients can undergo pertinent physical examinations, allowing doctors to create tailored treatment plans to optimize IVF success rates.

It's worth noting that adenomyosis may increase uterine contractions, which could potentially affect the embryo's implantation rate and the overall success of IVF. However, if natural conception proves challenging due to adenomyosis, and assuming that ovarian function remains robust and hormone levels are within the normal range, IVF can still be a viable and successful option. Mild and moderate cases of adenomyosis can typically proceed with IVF without significant impediments.

For older women with severe adenomyosis, the chances of achieving a successful IVF pregnancy are influenced by various factors:

1. Severity of Adenomyosis and Age: Severe adenomyosis can negatively impact the uterine environment, and as women age, ovarian function tends to decline, producing lower-quality eggs. In such cases, a woman's psychological state can further affect hormone secretion, potentially reducing the IVF success rate to less than 10%.

2. Treatment and Health: However, for some older women with severe adenomyosis, undergoing treatment to enhance uterine and ovarian function under medical guidance can improve the chances of a successful IVF pregnancy. In such cases, the probability of pregnancy may increase to around 15%. If these women maintain a relatively stable emotional state, the success rate can rise to approximately 20%.

Precautions for IVF in Women with Adenomyosis:

1. Emotional Well-being: Maintaining emotional well-being is essential. Excessive nervousness can affect hormonal changes in the body, potentially hindering embryo implantation. An optimistic attitude is crucial to ensure the proper functioning of the immune system.

2. Maintain Uterine Warmth: It's important to prevent the uterus from becoming cold, as it plays a crucial role in embryo implantation. Avoid exposure to cold environments and refrain from consuming substances that may have a cooling effect.

3. Moderate Physical Activity: During the IVF cycle, it's advisable to maintain a comfortable state and avoid physical exhaustion.

If you plan to conceive, it's advisable to aim for pregnancy during your optimal reproductive years. If conception doesn't occur within one year of trying, seeking proactive treatment is essential. Delaying IVF until later in life carries risks, as advanced age affects fertility and IVF success rates and increases the likelihood of uterine, cervical, and pelvic abnormalities that can impact pregnancy and IVF outcomes.

In summary, when contemplating IVF:

1. Recognize the Uncertainty: IVF outcomes can vary, and success is not guaranteed. IVF is a trial; success is the goal, but it's not assured.

2. Be Prepared for Sacrifices: The medications used during ovarian stimulation and uterine preparation can impact overall health. Be mentally prepared for these potential effects.

From a medical perspective, adenomyosis primarily affects multiparous women aged 30 to 50. However, it can also occur in young women who have not given birth, possibly related to various uterine cavity procedures. Therefore, the emphasis should always be on prevention rather than treatment. To reduce or prevent adenomyosis, it's advisable to minimize uterine procedures like dilation and curettage (D&C) and abortion, as these can harm the uterus. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet, rest, and overall well-being is essential to minimize the risk of adenomyosis due to various factors.