In this episode of Sheba Medical Center’s “Doctor on Call” series, Professor Shai Elizur, IVF and fertility specialist at the Sheba Endometriosis Center, shares essential guidance on how endometriosis can affect fertility—and how early diagnosis and specialized care can improve outcomes for women worldwide.
As a leading expert in fertility and reproductive medicine, Prof. Elizur combines global clinical expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care, empowering women to understand their condition, seek timely help, and maintain hope on their journey to motherhood.

Most Women with Endometriosis Can Conceive Naturally

Prof. Elizur begins with a reassuring message: most women with endometriosis will conceive naturally. This insight offers comfort and hope to many women concerned about their fertility.

However, he also underscores that endometriosis can increase the risk of infertility in some cases. For that reason, early diagnosis and intervention are critical. Women who have difficulty conceiving should consult a specialist promptly to receive the most effective and personalized care.

Recognizing the Signs: When to Seek Help

Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition that affects women of reproductive age, often presenting through symptoms that are mistakenly normalized. Key signs include

  • Severe pain during menstruation (dysmenorrhea)
  • Pain during or after intercourse (dyspareunia)
  • Ongoing pelvic pain or discomfort

Prof. Elizur urges women not to ignore these symptoms. Too often, diagnosis is delayed—sometimes for years—leading to unnecessary suffering and complications. By seeking evaluation early, women can manage pain more effectively and maintain their reproductive health.

Specialist performing diagnostic screening for endometriosis and fertility

Treatment Approaches for Women Trying to Conceive

While hormonal therapies and intrauterine devices (IUDs) can relieve pain, they prevent pregnancy and are therefore not suitable for women actively trying to conceive.

Prof. Elizur recommends that any woman who has been trying to become pregnant for several months without success consult a fertility specialist. At Sheba’s Endometriosis Treatment Center, multidisciplinary teams collaborate to tailor fertility strategies that align with each woman’s specific needs—offering innovative reproductive treatments and compassionate support every step of the way.

Empowerment Through Early Diagnosis and Global Expertise

Prof. Elizur’s global message is one of empowerment and hope: women should not wait through long periods of uncertainty. Timely consultation and individualized care can shorten the journey to conception and improve quality of life.

At Sheba Medical Center, our mission is to bring together world-class expertise, pioneering research, and a commitment to compassionate care. We continue to lead global efforts in women’s health, ensuring that every woman—wherever she lives—has access to the highest standard of reproductive medicine and the possibility of a healthy, fulfilling life.

A Message of Hope and Action

Endometriosis may complicate fertility, but it does not define it. With awareness, expert guidance, and access to advanced care, most women can achieve their dream of motherhood.

For more expert insights on endometriosis and fertility, watch the full “Doctor on Call” video with Professor Shai Elizur

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