March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, a national effort to increase visibility and understanding of this disease which affects an estimated 200 million people worldwide. Endometriosis is a common and often painful condition that affects many women around the world. It is a disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus,. This abnormal growth can cause a range of symptoms and complications, including fertility problems. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at endometriosis and how it can affect your ability to conceive.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus, typically in the pelvic area, although it can sometimes be found in other parts of the body. The tissue can attach to organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or intestines. The tissue behaves like the normal endometrium, thickening and breaking down during the menstrual cycle. However, unlike the tissue inside the uterus, the tissue outside of the uterus has nowhere to go. This can cause inflammation, pain, and scar tissue, which can lead to fertility problems.
Symptoms of endometriosis
The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. This pain can range from mild to severe and can occur at any time during your menstrual cycle. Other symptoms may include:
- Pain during sex
- Pain during bowel movements or urination
- Heavy periods or irregular bleeding
- Fatigue
- Infertility
- Digestive problems, such as bloating or constipation
- Endometriosis can also cause ovarian cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that form on the ovaries. These cysts can be painful and may need to be removed surgically.
Diagnosing endometriosis
Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging, as it can mimic other conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease or irritable bowel syndrome. If your doctor suspects endometriosis, they may perform a physical exam, including a pelvic exam. They may also order imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to look for signs of endometriosis. The only way to definitively diagnose endometriosis is through a surgical procedure called laparoscopy. During this procedure, a surgeon inserts a small camera into the abdomen to look for signs of endometriosis.
How does endometriosis affect fertility?
Endometriosis can have a significant impact on fertility, although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. One theory is that the endometrial tissue outside of the uterus can cause inflammation and scar tissue, which can affect the function of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. Scar tissue can also block the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg from travelling from the ovary to the uterus. In severe cases, the scar tissue can completely block the fallopian tubes, making it impossible for sperm to reach the egg.
Endometriosis can also affect the quality of the eggs and the lining of the uterus. Women with endometriosis may have a higher incidence of chromosomal abnormalities in their eggs, which can lead to miscarriage or infertility. The inflammation caused by endometriosis can also affect the environment of the uterus, making it less hospitable for the implantation of a fertilized egg.
Treating endometriosis and fertility
There are several treatment options available for endometriosis, depending on the severity of the condition and the symptoms.
- Pain Management
There are various drugs available to relieve pain. They include over-the-counter drugs as well as those recommended by your doctor. If your pain is severe, you may be sent to a pain management professional.
- Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy works by slowing or halting ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary). Most hormone therapies, such as pills or implants, are contraceptives. They will prevent you from becoming pregnant, thus they are not advised if you wish to have a kid right away. Hormone therapy has no effect on your capacity to conceive in the future.
- Surgery
Endometriosis tissue can be removed or destroyed surgically, which can help alleviate symptoms. Endometriosis surgery comes in a variety of forms.
- Laparoscopy
During laparoscopy, also known as keyhole surgery, small cuts are made in your stomach so the endometriosis tissue can be destroyed or cut out.
This procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain.
- Dienogest
Dienogest is a progestogen-only hormone preparation for the treatment of endometriosis. It works by suppressing oestradiol production and preventing the growth of the endometrium.
Conclusion
Endometriosis may have an impact on both your emotional and physical health. This may worsen as a result of the added stress of trying to conceive. Talking to those close to you may be beneficial. Having a support network of individuals close to you whom you can confide in will be extremely beneficial both during and after your pregnancy. It will also assist you in lowering your stress levels. Take assistance from specialists to understand the symptoms and possible treatments.
Speak with our experts to know more about Endometriosis.
Ferticare can assist you in becoming pregnant. Ferticare will support you every step of the way. It all begins with an initial consultation to determine the best reproductive therapy for you. We provide patients with personalised, cost-effective treatment programmes and connect them with the finest physician for their needs.
If you’re experiencing trouble becoming pregnant, make an appointment with one of our fertility specialists. If you have any further questions about the procedures, please contact us.
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