Endometriosis is a condition where the lining of your uterus, or the endometrium, grows outside of its usual location. Even when outside of your uterus, this tissue functions like it normally does, thickening and breaking down during your menstrual cycle, causing a lot of pain and other symptoms.
If you have this condition and are struggling to conceive a child, endometriosis may be unknowingly playing a factor in your infertility. While pain is a well-known side effect of endometriosis, many people have the condition and don’t even know it, because they lack severe symptoms.
If you’ve been having unprotected sex in the hopes of having a baby, but are unable to get pregnant, medical intervention can help.
Dr. Martin Pakideh and Dr. Soudabeh Ahadi are skilled in both diagnosing and treating endometriosis and its symptoms. They offer a variety of options to relieve pain and heavy bleeding, and can work closely with you to increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.
How endometriosis influences fertility
There are several reasons you may find it difficult to become pregnant when you have endometriosis. These reasons include:
Inflammation
When the endometrial lining becomes inflamed, it produces molecules known as cytokines, which can negatively affect the egg and sperm. Cytokines can paralyze the egg and sperm, preventing the fertilization process.
Scar tissue
The inflammation to the endometrial tissue can leave behind scars and adhesions that can obstruct the pathways of the sperm and eggs, interfering with fertilization.
Blocked ovaries
Inflamed endometrial tissue can also cause obstruction in the fallopian tubes, which prevents the release of the eggs. When eggs become trapped in your ovaries, sperm can’t make contact to compete conception.
While these issues increase your risk of fertility problems, they can also increase the likelihood of a miscarriage after you become pregnant.
Endometriosis treatment can help
While not every woman will become pregnant following treatment for endometriosis, many can increase their chances for a successful pregnancy and healthy delivery.
There are surgical options to remove the excess endometrial tissue that can obstruct your reproductive organs and reduce your opportunities to conceive. By removing the extra tissue, your reproductive organs can begin functioning normally again.
Dr. Pakideh and Dr. Ahadi work closely with you to determine the best course of treatment for your endometriosis, especially if your condition causes you pain that reduces your quality of life. They may recommend hormonal therapy to stop the progress of tissue growth, while still protecting your options for conceiving a healthy pregnancy.
While endometriosis is a leading cause of fertility struggles, there is still hope of a conception following your treatment. Early diagnosis is key to reducing the severity of your condition. Dr. Pakideh and Dr. Ahadi offer minimally-invasive laparoscopic diagnostic options to confirm endometriosis and start your treatment as soon as possible.
If you’re trying to conceive, but struggle with infertility due to endometriosis, schedule a diagnostic evaluation today at Monroe OB/GYN to learn more about your options for endometriosis treatment.
