Yes you can!
March is recognised as Endometriosis Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of this condition and advocating for those affected.
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus, affecting approximately 1 in 10 women in the UK. This condition often leads to pelvic pain, heavy periods, and can significantly impact fertility.
Our latest blog aims to help women and their families understand the impact that Endometriosis may have on their fertility and what treatment options are available.
Understanding Endometriosis and Its Impact on Fertility
While many individuals with endometriosis can conceive naturally, the condition is associated with fertility challenges. It's estimated that 60-70% of those with endometriosis can become pregnant spontaneously.
However, it should be noted that the severity of each individual case of endometriosis can influence fertility outcomes. In cases of mild to moderate endometriosis, more than 7 in 10 people may conceive without treatment, whereas severe endometriosis can pose greater challenges and require assistance.
The exact mechanisms by which endometriosis affects fertility are not fully understood but factors include:
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Anatomical Disruptions: Endometriosis can cause scarring and adhesions, leading to distorted pelvic anatomy, which may hinder the egg and sperm from meeting.
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Inflammatory Environment: The condition may trigger the release of inflammatory substances that can impair fertilisation and embryo implantation.
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Hormonal Imbalances: Endometriosis is sometimes associated with defective progesterone receptors, which might affect implantation and early pregnancy.
Diagnosis of Endometriosis
Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging due to the variability of symptoms and their overlap with other conditions.Every woman experiences the condition differently because symptoms can be similar to other illnesses such as irritable bowel syndrome or pelvic inflammatory disease. Unfortunately, it takes approximately 7.5 years for a woman to be diagnosed with the condition.
Common diagnostic approaches include:
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Clinical Evaluation: A detailed medical history and pelvic examination can provide initial indications of endometriosis.
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Imaging Studies: Ultrasound and MRI scans may detect endometriotic cysts or nodules.
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Laparoscopy: This minimally invasive surgical procedure allows direct visualisation of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus and is considered the definitive method for diagnosis.
Fertility Investigations for Individuals with Endometriosis
If you suffer with Endometriosis, a fertility specialist can assess your fertility through tests such as:
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Ultrasounds & Scans – To check for ovarian cysts (endometriomas) or adhesions.
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Blood Tests – To measure hormone levels and check ovarian reserve.
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Laparoscopy – A minor surgical procedure to confirm endometriosis and potentially treat it.
Fertility Treatment Options for Individuals with Endometriosis
Several fertility treatments can support those with endometriosis in their journey to conceive:
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Laparoscopic Surgery: Surgical removal or destruction of endometriotic lesions can improve fertility, especially in mild to moderate cases. This approach aims to restore normal pelvic anatomy and function.
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Ovulation Induction with Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): For individuals with minimal to mild endometriosis, stimulating ovulation combined with IUI can enhance fertility. This method increases the number of available eggs and places sperm directly into the uterus, facilitating fertilisation.
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In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): IVF is particularly effective for those with moderate to severe endometriosis or when other treatments have not succeeded. It involves retrieving eggs and fertilising them with sperm in a laboratory setting before transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus. Studies have shown that IVF can significantly improve pregnancy rates in individuals with endometriosis.
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Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): Techniques such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be utilised alongside IVF to enhance fertilisation rates, especially when male factor infertility is also present.
Conclusion
While endometriosis can pose challenges to conception, many individuals with the condition achieve successful pregnancies, either naturally or with medical assistance sought through a Fertility Clinic such as IVF Matters. Advancements in fertility treatments, coupled with increased awareness and support, offer hope and options for those affected.
Need Support?
If you suffer with Endometriosis and would like support to look at fertility treatment options to help you start a family, schedule a FREE Advisory Call with our Fertility Consultant, Dr Irfana Koita to find out what your next steps are.
