Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a medical condition where tissue resembling the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterine cavity. These growths may occur on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic area, or in rare cases, other parts of the body like the bladder or even the lungs.

Endometriosis is a major cause of infertility, affecting approximately 30-50% of individuals struggling to conceive.

Causes of Infertility

1. Inflammation and Pelvic Adhesions:

• Ectopic endometrial tissue triggers chronic inflammation, leading to the formation of adhesions around the pelvic area, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.

• Adhesions can block the fallopian tubes or impair the movement of eggs to the uterus.

2. Ovulation Disruption:

• Inflammation or damage to the ovaries may result in irregular ovulation or reduced egg production.

3. Reduced Egg Quality:

• Endometriosis can negatively affect egg quality, particularly in those with ovarian endometriomas (endometriotic cysts or Chocolate cyst).

4. Endometrial Issues:

• The uterine lining may become unsuitable for embryo implantation, reducing the likelihood of pregnancy.

5. Immune System Dysfunction:

• The condition may alter immune responses, causing the body to treat the embryo as a foreign object, preventing successful implantation and pregnancy.

Symptoms

• Severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea).

• Chronic pelvic pain.

• Infertility or difficulty conceiving.

• Pain during sexual intercourse.

• Painful urination or bowel movements during menstruation.

• Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding.

• Some individuals may experience no noticeable symptoms.

Diagnosis and Fertility Assessment

1. Medical History and Physical Examination:

• To identify chronic pain or the presence of adhesions.

2. Laparoscopy:

• The most accurate method to confirm the condition and assess its severity.

3. Fallopian Tube Evaluation:

• Techniques like hysterosalpingography (HSG) are used to check for blockages in the tubes.

Treatment Options for Conceiving

1. Medication:

• Hormonal treatments can manage symptoms in mild cases. However, certain hormonal medications, like GnRH agonists, temporarily suppress ovulation and are unsuitable for those actively trying to conceive.

2. Surgery:

• Laparoscopic surgery to remove abnormal tissue and adhesions in the pelvic area can enhance fertility.

3. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART):

• Ovulation Induction: Stimulates egg production to increase ovulation chances.

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Suitable when the fallopian tubes are functional.

• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): The most effective method, particularly for those with severely damaged fallopian tubes or unsuccessful previous treatments.

4. General Health Management:

• Weight reduction if overweight.

• Stress reduction and adopting an anti-inflammatory diet with regular exercise.

Pregnancy Prospects

• Those with severe endometriosis ( 3 out of 4) may face reduced chances of natural conception. However, surgery combined with IVF significantly improves success rates.

• With appropriate treatment, many patients can successfully conceive.

If you’re experiencing difficulty conceiving, consult a specialist in reproductive health to determine the best course of action tailored to your condition.

Appointment

iBaby Fertility & Genetic Center
11 Floor, Athenee Tower, Wittayu Road
Mon – Sat 9 am – 4 pm

More Information

Tel : +6621688640
Tel : +6621688641
Tel : +6621688642
Tel : +6621688643
Mail : info@iBabyFertility.com
Line : @iBaby