External validation of the Endometriosis Fertility Index in a French population

Abstract

To show an external validation of the Endometriosis Fertility Index (EFI) and to observe cumulated pregnancy rates after infertility management combining surgery and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Observational study from January 2004 to December2012. Tertiary-care university hospital and ART center. Four hundred twelve infertile and endometriotic patients after laparoscopic surgery. Surgical diagnosis and treatment followed by spontaneous fertility or ART management. Spontaneous pregnancy rates and cumulative (spontaneous and ART) pregnancy rates according to theEFI. A significant relationship between EFI and spontaneous pregnancy rates was observed at 12months (P=.001). The least function score and complete removal of endometriotic lesions and pelvic adhesions were significantly associated with spontaneous pregnancy (P=.006). Cumulative pregnancy rate at 18months was 78.8%. ART benefits for pregnancy rates were higher for patients with poor EFI. External validation of the EFI in a French population was demonstrated. Combining surgery for endometriosis and ART led to a 78.8% pregnancy rate at 18months after surgery.