Endometriosis does not necessarily cause infertility but there is an association with fertility problems, although the cause is not fully established. Even with severe endometriosis, natural conception is still possible.
Endometriosis UK believes that anyone with endometriosis who is concerned about their fertility should have access to the information and support they need. We believe that if an individuals endometriosis, or the treatment they are receiving, could impact on their fertility, they should have access to NHS treatment for fertility support and preservation.
Endometriosis UK’s key asks of Governments in relation to fertility are:
- Doctors should always ask about concerns and desires around fertility
- Those who do not want children should still be afforded the same level of care and access to treatment for their endometriosis and symptoms
- Anyone undergoing treatment for endometriosis that may impact on their fertility should be informed of this and offered access to fertility preservation
- In line with NICE guidance on fertility problems (CG156 https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg156) where there is a known clinical cause of infertility (which includes endometriosis), earlier referral to a specialist consultation should be offered
- Ensure the newly updated NICE Guideline on Endometriosis and Fertility pathways is properly implemented, and review progress.
NICE Guideline on Endometriosis and fertility pathways
As of March 2026, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended a new dedicated fertility treatment pathway for endometriosis. The updated fertility guideline includes a brand-new section specifically for those with endometriosis who are struggling to conceive.
This is a direct result of feedback received during public consultation, recognising for the first time that the condition requires its own tailored approach to fertility care, separate from other causes of infertility.
The dedicated endometriosis section was added to the final guideline after NICE's independent committee carefully considered feedback from patients, patient groups, clinicians and professional bodies.
Endometriosis UK and others told NICE during consultation that endometriosis was being grouped with unexplained infertility, despite it being a diagnosed condition. The committee agreed this was inappropriate and that endometriosis requires a distinct fertility pathway.
Respondents also told NICE that terms such as "mild" and "severe" endometriosis were clinically ambiguous and did not reflect the complexity of the condition or its impact on fertility. The committee agreed and these terms have been removed from the final guideline.
This marks a step change in the fertility support that anyone with endometriosis should receive. For years, those with endometriosis have told us they felt invisible within the fertility system - grouped with unexplained infertility despite having a diagnosed condition. Endometriosis UK has welcomed NICE's decision to listen to patient voices during consultation, to create a dedicated pathway, and to remove misleading labels like 'mild' and 'severe' endometriosis.
For more information on endometriosis, fertility and pregnancy, resources are available at the link below.