Adenomyosis and IVF outcomes –Where we are and where we need to be

Better imaging techniques will result in more women who are undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) being diagnosed with adenomyosis. Preliminary data suggest that adenomyosis may have implications for the outcome of IVF. However, available evidence is limited to data from retrospective studies with major inconsistencies in the diagnostic criteria used to confirm adenomyosis. Despite this uncertainty, a number of therapeutic modifications have been suggested to minimize the impact of adenomyosis in women undergoing IVF. In this brief report, we summarize current limitations in diagnosing adenomyosis and critically evaluate the available evidence on its impact on IVF outcomes. We set out a number of steps needed to generate the evidence to underpin the diagnosis, prognosis and effective treatment so that women undergoing IVF can be adequately counselled.