A Few Essential Facts about Endometriosis and Fertility
Let’s begin by addressing the stress points, shall we? While endometriosis might be a hurdle on your path to becoming pregnant, with early diagnosis and proper treatment it can be resolved.
What is Endometriosis?
The lining of the uterus/womb, known as the endometrium is made of endometrial tissues. When these tissues start attaching and growing outside the uterus it leads to endometriosis. The usual places of abnormal endometrial tissue growth include ovaries, fallopian tubes, abdominal lining, and even the bladder and intestines.
There are four stages of endometriosis:
- Stage I: Minimal case – Few implants of endometriosis; no scar tissue.
- Stage II: Mild case – More implants than stage one; thickness is less than 2 inches; no scar tissue.
- Stage III: Moderate - Significant number of endometrial implants in ovaries, fallopian tubes or other areas, with chances of scar tissue development.
- Stage IV: Severe – Possibility of large cysts in the ovaries caused by severe endometriosis, scar tissue development in the affected areas.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
- Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding.
- Excessive back pain and menstrual cramps.
- Irregular menstrual cycle.
- Consistent pain in the pelvic area for more than 6 months.
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse.
- Difficulty in conceiving.
- Pain while defaecation
How does it affect fertility?
- Hormonal imbalance affect the natural environment of the eggs, reduce egg numbers, altering the quality and impairing implantation of embryo.
- Ovarian endometriosis disrupts the release of eggs by creating cysts and adhesions.
- Blocking the path for the sperm to travel up the fallopian tubes if there is a tubal block.
- The altered immune system starts attacking the embryo.
What are the treatments for endometriosis?
Endometriosis is considered one of the leading causes of infertility. However, studies show that 70% of women with minimal to moderate endometriosis can get pregnant with treatment. In extreme cases surgical procedures (removal of endometriotic cyst), IUI (intrauterine insemination) along with controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (induced medication to release more eggs), and IVF (in vitro fertilization) have worked wonders for women trying to conceive with underlying endometriosis conditions. If you are exhibiting any signs of endometriosis or facing difficulty in getting pregnant, reach out to specialists at Miracles Fertility & IVF Clinic, located in Sec 14, Gurgaon. It has a great team of fertility specialist who will make your dream of becoming a mother come true.
