Endometrial pathology and infertility.

OBJECTIVE

To call attention to endometrial pathologies, which in addition to causing menstrual problems, are a cause of infertility.

DESIGN

Controlled clinical study.

SETTING

Specialized unit in the management of infertile patients.

PATIENT(S): Fifteen infertile women between the ages of 26 and 39 years and suffering infertility from endometrial problems for a period of 4 to 18 years were included in the study. Six patients had primary infertility and nine others had secondary infertility.

INTERVENTION(S): Once the endometrial pathology was diagnosed, treatment was initiated according to the type of problem: hysteroscopy, curettage, and hormonal replacement with or without corticoids or antiphymic drugs.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Clinical studies, laboratory tests, hormonal serum levels, and endoscopy.

RESULT(S): After initiating specific treatment for each of the pathologies, menstruation was re-established in 14 of 15 patients. Nine patients became pregnant (8 of 10 cases with bone, squamous cell, or muscular metaplasia).

CONCLUSION(S): Pathological changes of the endometrium are causes of infertility. These problems are not as rare as thought. They must be searched for carefully and diagnosed promptly. The majority carry a good prognosis when adequately treated.