What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus, called the endometrium, starts to grow outside the uterus. This aberrant tissue growth can occur on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining the pelvis. Rarely, endometrial-like tissue may be found beyond the pelvic region.
Normally, the endometrium thickens and sheds throughout the menstrual cycle and leaves the body during the period. However, any tissue that has grown outside of the uterus becomes trapped.
In the tissue surrounding the ovaries, irritation may occur and cause cysts (called endometriomas) or scar tissue.
What are the symptoms of Endometriosis?
Moderate to severe menstrual pain and heavy bleeding
Painful urination or bowel movements during menstrual periods
Discomfort during sexual intercourse
Menstrual-related bloating, cramps, nausea, constipation, and fatigue
Challenges with fertility and conceiving
Chronic lower back and pelvic pain.
Can sometimes be asymptomatic.
Trying to Conceive with Endometriosis?
If you have not been able to conceive after 6 to 12 months of actively trying, make an appointment with an infertility specialist to make a baseline assessment
Discuss with your doctor about your history and learn more about In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
– During IVF, the egg is removed from the ovary and inseminated outside the body (in vitro), then placed back into the uterus for implantation. This prevents endometriosis from blocking the fertilization process or causing damage to the gametes (sperm or egg)
Options like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or treatment with oral medication can be considered for more moderate cases
Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and enough exercise, as this can help reduce inflammation in the body
