Infertility And Endometriosis
October 31, 2023
Infertility can be an emotionally challenging journey for couples who are trying to conceive. Various factors can contribute to infertility, one of which is endometriosis. This condition affects millions of women worldwide, and its impact on fertility can be significant. Let us explore what endometriosis is, how it affects fertility, and the treatment options available.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of it. This tissue, called the endometrium, responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle by thickening, breaking down, and bleeding. However, when endometrial tissue is located outside the uterus, it has nowhere to exit the body. This can lead to inflammation, scarring, and the formation of adhesions.
Diagnosing Endometriosis
If you suspect that endometriosis may be affecting your fertility, it is important to consult a fertility specialist. They will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include:
- Medical History: The fertility doctor will ask about your symptoms, menstrual cycles, and any previous diagnoses or treatments.
- Physical Examination: The doctor may perform a pelvic exam to check for any abnormalities or signs of endometriosis.
- Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound may be performed to visualise the reproductive organs and look for any signs of endometrial growths.
- Laparoscopy: In some cases, a minimally invasive surgical procedure called laparoscopy may be necessary to diagnose endometriosis definitively. During this procedure, a thin tube with a camera is inserted into the abdomen to view the pelvic organs and remove any endometrial tissue found.
How Does Endometriosis Affect Fertility?
Endometriosis can have a significant impact on fertility in several ways:
- Disrupted Egg Quality and Ovulation: Endometriosis may disrupt the normal functioning of the ovaries, leading to poor egg quality or irregular ovulation.
- Blocked Fallopian Tubes: The presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus can cause scarring or adhesions in the fallopian tubes, preventing sperm from reaching the egg or blocking the fertilised egg from reaching the uterus.
- Altered Hormonal Environment: The abnormal tissue growth in endometriosis produces substances that can interfere with normal hormone levels required for the successful implantation of a fertilised egg.
Treating Endometriosis-Related Infertility
While there is no cure for endometriosis, your fertility specialist can recommend treatment options available to manage the symptoms and improve fertility outcomes:
- Medications: Hormonal medications such as birth control pills, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, or progestin-based therapies can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with endometriosis.
- Surgery: In cases where medication alone is not effective, your fertility doctor may recommend surgery to remove endometrial growths, scar tissue, or adhesions that are impacting fertility.
- Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): For couples struggling with infertility due to endometriosis, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI) can be effective treatment options. An IVF procedure involves combining eggs and sperm in a laboratory before transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus, while an IUI treatment involves placing prepared sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation.
We understand that dealing with infertility is not easy, but you don't have to face it alone. At Apollo Fertility, we offer comprehensive fertility tests, evaluations and personalised treatment plans for your unique needs. Our experienced team of fertility specialists is dedicated to helping you achieve your dream of parenthood.
While there is no cure for endometriosis, its symptoms can be managed through various treatment options.
Yes, many women with endometriosis can conceive and have successful pregnancies. With proper diagnosis and treatment, the chances of becoming pregnant can be improved.
It is advisable to consult a fertility specialist if you suspect endometriosis or are experiencing infertility. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your specific case.
