Does female weight affect the outcomes of the newborn in women with endometriosis undergoing IVF?

This study investigated if body mass index (BMI; a measurement of weight in relation to height) is associated with newborn outcomes (NOs) in women with endometrosis (EDM). 

They found that underweight women had higher rates of preterm birth (PTB). 

Endometriosis (EDM) is a condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus. This can be painful and cause infertility. Many women with EDM undergo assisted reproduction (AR). This includes in vitro fertilization (IVF). Some studies suggest that EDM is associated with poor newborn outcomes (NOs). This may be because the structure of the uterus is different. It could also be related to other factors like hormones. 

Women with EDM are more likely to have a low body mass index (BMI). Abnormal BMI is also associated with a higher risk of poor NOs. It is unclear if BMI is associated with NOs in women with EDM undergoing IVF. 

This study included 7086 women that underwent successful IVF. 1111 women had EDM. Women were grouped according to standard BMI groupings. A normal BMI was 18.5-24.9 kg/m². NOs included preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW). 

The rate of PTB was 14.61% in EDM patients with a BMI of less than 18.5 kg/m². This compared to a PTB rate of 3.28% in non-EDM patients. Normal-weight and overweight women with EDM had similar rates of PTB. The risk of PTB was 4.66 times higher with EDM and low BMI compared to the control group. There was no effect of BMI on other NOs in patients with EDM. 

The authors concluded that underweight women with EDM had higher rates of PTB.

This study was based on medical records. Information may have been missing. Other factors could influence NOs. More controlled studies are needed. 

If you have any concerns regarding infertility please consult with your doctor.