New research published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) reveals a slight but significant increase in birth defects among babies born to mothers with endometriosis.
The study analyzed over 1.4 million births in Ontario from 2006 to 2021. Among 33,619 babies born to mothers with endometriosis, 2,120 had a congenital anomaly-a rate of 6.3%. In comparison, babies born to mothers without the condition had a 5.4% rate.
Dr. Nicholas Leyland, president-elect of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada, says the findings underscore the need for further research into how endometriosis and its associated inflammation may affect fetal development.
Specific anomalies with the highest associated risks included cleft palate, hypospadias, and pulmonary artery stenosis.
Violeta Kondovski, president of Endometriosis Canada, says the results are not surprising, noting many with the condition also have connective tissue disorders linked to some birth defects.
Endometriosis affects at least one in 10 women in Canada, but experts say the true number may be much higher due to underdiagnosis.
Both Kondovski and Leyland stress the findings are not meant to alarm expecting mothers, but to ensure proper monitoring and care.