Endometriosis is one of the causes of unexplained infertility, failed IVF, and recurring miscarriages. The condition occurs when endometrial tissues that normally grow in the uterus appear elsewhere. You can get an endometriosis test before undergoing IVF or if you experience symptoms like pelvic pain and irregular or heavy menses. Here are a few things patients should know about testing endometriosis:
Test Markers
Fertility specialists can test for markers of endometriosis before confirming the condition. Endometriosis is sometimes marked by an inflamed uterine lining and increased levels of the BCL6 gene protein. Normal endometrial tissues grow in the uterus in preparation for fertilization and implantation. When fertilization doesn’t occur, the tissues are shed as part of menses. Abnormal growths in the pelvic cavity, around the ovaries, or inside the fallopian tubes behave similarly. They grow and shed, but lack proper exit channels; this results in buildup and circulation issues.
The abnormal growths can lead to inflammation, pelvic pain, and discomfort during intercourse or bowel movements. Some women have silent endometriosis, which means they don’t have obvious symptoms. Silent endometriosis may be diagnosed as part of comprehensive evaluations during IVF procedures or infertility treatment. You can get an endometriosis test, which looks for markers of endometriosis. If the test is positive, further evaluations may be scheduled to confirm the condition. BCL6 tests help reveal potential endometriosis when diagnosing unexplained infertility or preparing for assisted reproductive treatments.
Endometriosis Confirmation
Diagnosing symptoms and testing for markers, such as an inflamed uterine lining or increased BCL6 gene levels, may not confirm endometriosis. For conclusive results, some women need further evaluations, which include laparoscopic biopsies and imaging tests. A laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a tiny instrument with an attached camera to remove tissues. Doctors may take samples of suspected endometrial tissue and study them. These biopsies help confirm the presence of abnormal endometrial tissues. In treatment, surgeons remove the tissues to restore the normal anatomy of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other affected areas. Imaging tests, such as X-rays and ultrasounds, also help indicate abnormal endometrial tissues in various parts of the body.
Ongoing Monitoring
Even after treatment through hormonal therapy or surgical removal, endometriosis may recur. Regular testing facilitates ongoing monitoring to identify recurrence early. Ongoing monitoring is sometimes recommended in minor cases, where the endometriosis doesn’t affect your health. When the condition doesn’t result in physical pain, irregular menses, or fertility concerns, immediate intervention may not be necessary. Doctors will continue to monitor your health through regular scans and tests.
Tracking symptoms throughout the year helps to support testing accuracy, so record pain levels, menstrual cycles, digestive changes, or fatigue patterns. Some forms of endometriosis have unusual symptoms, such as breathing difficulties and blood in stool or urine. These symptoms require prompt evaluation, especially if you’ve been diagnosed with silent or symptomatic endometriosis before. Ongoing monitoring is also used to identify signs of endometriosis in women from families with a history of the condition. This proactive approach helps doctors determine the ideal time to intervene.
When to Test
Tests, imaging, and laparoscopy help provide a conclusive determination that informs treatment options. You may test for potential endometriosis when planning to get pregnant. Proactive tests help verify that your reproductive health is optimal to support a healthy pregnancy. Another ideal time for a test is after an unexplained infertility diagnosis.
Infertility may stem from various issues, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), ovarian abnormalities, sperm and egg quality issues, and infections. Routine blood tests and imaging help reveal these conditions. If standard tests fail to determine a reason behind the inability to conceive naturally, you may be diagnosed with unexplained infertility. Doctors then use more comprehensive assessments; this involves testing for endometriosis, progesterone resistance, and endometritis. You can also get a test before an IVF or other assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). These tests help reduce the chances of failure and repeated procedures.
Get an Endometriosis Test Today
An endometriosis test helps doctors diagnose the condition and create treatment plans. Doctors may choose to monitor the condition, prescribe hormonal treatments like contraceptives, or recommend surgical removal and ARTs. Receive an endometriosis test to find out more about the condition and your next steps.
