A clearer fertility route for endometriosis is now set out in NICE guidance.
NICE has updated its fertility guideline to include a new, dedicated section for people with endometriosis who are struggling to conceive. NICE says this change followed feedback during public consultation from patients, patient groups, clinicians and professional bodies.
What changed
- Dedicated endometriosis pathway: endometriosis is treated as a distinct, diagnosed cause of fertility problems rather than being grouped with unexplained infertility.
- Terminology update: the terms “mild” and “severe” endometriosis were removed after consultation responses described them as clinically ambiguous.
- Personalised discussions: clinicians should consider factors such as time trying to conceive, symptom severity, age, ovarian reserve and male fertility factors.
Treatment pathway outlined
Where appropriate, expectant management or surgery (aligned with NICE endometriosis guideline NG73) may be offered. If these are not suitable or successful after 2 years, fertility treatments including IUI or IVF will be discussed.
Read more at https://www.nice.org.uk/news/articles/nice-recommends-new-dedicated-fertility-treatment-pathway-for-endometriosis
