Women with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) continue to struggle with sexual dysfunction and reduced quality of life well after giving birth, a new study found. More than 70% reported sexual dysfunction at 6 months postpartum, and nearly 60% still did at 12 months. Experts say sexual health is the "forgotten fourth pillar" of endometriosis care and needs to be routinely addressed.
Women with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) may get a temporary reprieve from symptoms during pregnancy, but a new prospective cohort study presented at the ESHRE 2026 Annual Meeting in London shows that sexual dysfunction and reduced quality of life frequently return — and persist — after delivery. The study followed 56 women with surgically confirmed DIE for 12 months postpartum, revealing that sexual health concerns are far from resolved once the baby arrives.
Notably, the study found no significant differences in sexual dysfunction based on delivery mode — meaning women who chose cesarean section over vaginal birth to protect their sexual health may not have gained the advantage they expected. Researchers say this is an important message: vaginal delivery remains a valid option for women with DIE.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women, yet sexual function in the postpartum period remains critically understudied and underaddressed. Experts are calling for routine screening of all sexual function domains and integration of sexual health into standard postpartum follow-up for DIE patients.
