Endometriose e infertilidade feminina: a criopreservação de oócitos como estratégia de preservação da fertilidade

Abstract

Endometriosis is a chronic, inflammatory, and estrogen-dependent gynecological disease characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterine cavity, primarily affecting women of reproductive age. The disease is strongly associated with female infertility, potentially compromising ovarian reserve, oocyte quality, and reproductive function. Furthermore, it causes significant physical, emotional, and social impacts, contributing to a reduction in patients' quality of life. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between endometriosis, female infertility, and oocyte cryopreservation as a fertility preservation strategy. To this end, 12 studies published between 2020 and 2025, indexed in the PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, and MEDLINE databases, were selected following the methodological criteria of the PRISMA protocol. The results showed that endometriosis has a direct influence on ovarian reserve, demonstrated by reduced levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), decreased antral follicle count, and reduced response to ovarian stimulation, especially in moderate and severe cases of the disease. It was also observed that ovarian surgical interventions can exacerbate the loss of reproductive function, reinforcing the importance of preventive fertility preservation strategies. In this context, oocyte cryopreservation, especially through vitrification, stood out as a safe and effective alternative, showing high cell survival rates after thawing and reproductive results similar to those obtained with fresh oocytes. The literature reviewed also demonstrated consensus regarding the importance of performing the procedure early, preferably before disease progression or surgical interventions, aiming for better future reproductive prospects. However, scientific gaps remain regarding the ideal time for cryopreservation and the appropriate number of oocytes to be stored to optimize reproductive outcomes. It is concluded that oocyte cryopreservation represents an important tool for preserving fertility and reproductive autonomy in women with endometriosis.