The connection between infertility and endometriosis is a real problem that adds to the amount of time taken to get pregnant. Endometriosis might be painful and can result when the tissue inside the uterus grows outside of the uterus. Its development depends on the female estrogen hormone, but endometriosis typically affects women in their reproductive years and is rare in postmenopausal women. Dr. Ulas Bozdagan understands the frustration caused by endometriosis, and he has a treatment option for every woman.
Symptoms of endometriosis
Common endometriosis symptoms include painful intercourse, discomfort before and after menstruation, pain, infertility, or other abnormalities with bowel movements or urination around the time of menstruation. Still, many women with endometriosis will have no symptoms.
Some women with endometriosis can have immune problems such as eczema, asthma, and fibromyalgia. The number of symptoms or amount of pain does not relate to the severity of endometriosis. Some women have mild endometriosis with severe symptoms, others have no symptoms, and their endometriosis is severe.
Impact of endometriosis on fertility
The irritation and inflammation caused by endometriosis might affect fertility. Inflammation of fimbriae that picks the egg and transports it to the fallopian tube causes scarring and swelling so that the egg cannot reach its destination. Also, the inflammation damages the eggs and sperms when exposed to a sterile environment caused by endometriosis.
In advanced cases, endometriosis begins to cause adhesions, making the pelvic organs get stuck to each other, leading to decreased function. Endometriosis can block the fallopian tubes. If the endometriosis has formed an endometrioma on the ovary that can be seen with a sonogram, the doctor only makes diagnoses with laparoscopy.
Treatment of infertility related to endometriosis
Various treatment options for endometriosis are available, including anti-inflammatory medication, injectable or oral medication, and surgical options. Your doctor can conclude the best treatment option depending on what you have tried and the severity of the endometriosis.
If you have endometriosis and have difficulty getting pregnant, visit your physicians to make sure that there is no extra factor affecting fertility. Depending on your symptoms and stage of endometriosis, surgery can be needed to help you conceive. If your anatomy is inaccurate or there are extensive pelvic adhesions or a cyst on the ovaries, surgical options can be the best way to improve fertility.
Other infertility treatments related to endometriosis include artificial reproductive technology, ovulation induction, and artificial insemination. Symptoms of endometriosis can also overlap gynecological symptoms, so ensure you alert your health provider of any concerns. Keep in mind that not every woman with endometriosis has the same level of severity, symptoms, or difficulty beginning a family. You should talk to your doctor about the symptoms and determine the best treatment plan for conceiving.
If you are struggling with endometriosis or have the above symptoms, talk to your doctor and find the best treatment option that can help you get pregnant and conceive. Endometriosis causing infertility can be frustrating, but since it can be treated, don’t allow yourself to suffer but seek treatment and grow a family. You can book an appointment to consult with Dr. Bozdogan about the best treatment approach for you.