18 Jul Endometriosis, what is it and how can it affect my fertility?
By Reproclinic Editorial Committee
On more than one occasion, you may have heard about endometriosis. And, probably, you have also heard that it may be related to a woman’s fertility. But, have you ever wondered what it is exactly?
When the ovum is not fertilized during the menstrual cycle, the endometrium breaks off, causing what is known as menstruation. What is endometriosis? Thais a disease in which the endometrium, which is the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus, located outside the uterus.
These parts of the endometrium are called implants, nodules or injuries, and there are estimates that suggest that they suffer between 6 and 10% of women. The most frequent places where they are found:
- In the ovaries or below these
- In the fallopian tubes
- In the intestines
- In the bladder
- Behind the uterus
- Bowels
Symptoms of endometriosis
The main consequence of endometriosis is that menstruations are more painful and even incapacitating. This is because the endometrium becomes inflamed, causing alterations in organs and tissues. Although each woman is a world and the symptoms can vary a lot, the most frequent are:
- Pain in the intestine or abdomen
- Menses more abundant than normal
- Pain during sexual intercourse and after these
- Menstrual cramps
- Lack of energy, tiredness far from normal
In addition to these problems, endometriosis can cause infertility problems when the nodules are lodged in the fallopian tubes or in the ovaries.
Endometriosis and infertility
Between 30 and 50% of women who suffer from this disease also do so from infertility. At this point, one of the solutions to become pregnant is to resort to assisted reproduction techniques such as in vitro fertilization.
There are several causes that can cause infertility, but these are the main ones:
- Inflammation in the abdomen that makes the union between the sperm and the egg impossible
- Impairment of a normal ovulation
- Greater possibility of abortion in the case of pregnancy
Prevention and treatment of endometriosis
Unfortunately, endometriosis can not be prevented. So, in the event of suffering it, it is important to use a professional to treat the pain it causes and also prevent further development. In these cases, hormonal and analgesic treatments are usually carried out (always under medical prescription).
As a last resort and in more severe cases, a surgical treatment may be necessary to eliminate the endometrium that grows outside the uterus. In addition, to reducing the symptoms of endometriosis, its evolution is also avoided.
If you want to start a family, get in touch with Reproclinic and we will inform you and solve all your doubts.
Medical Director at Reproclinic
Specialist in Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine
