Adenomyosis and Infertility: A Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Reproductive Medicine
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Adenomyosis, characterized by ectopic endometrial tissue in the myometrium, is increasingly diagnosed in younger, infertile women.
• This benign condition presents significant challenges in reproductive health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathophysiology, prevalence, and diagnostic methods of adenomyosis.
• To explore its impact on infertility, treatment options, and reproductive outcomes.
• To identify knowledge gaps and future research directions.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed.
• Articles published in English from January 1970 to July 2022 were included.
• A narrative review methodology was employed.

Main Results:

• Fifty relevant articles were identified and synthesized.
• Adenomyosis is a common gynecological disorder affecting reproductive-aged women.
• It adversely affects in vitro fertilization (IVF), pregnancy rates, live birth rates, and increases miscarriage risk.

Conclusions:

• Non-invasive diagnostic tools like MRI and TVUS have improved adenomyosis recognition in infertility.
• Adenomyosis significantly impacts fertility outcomes.
• Further randomized controlled trials are needed to establish optimal diagnostic and treatment strategies.