Endometriosis and the fertility: causes, symptoms and treatment options
Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus also grows elsewhere in the body. The most common places for endometriosis to occur are the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder and intestines. These abnormal growths can cause pain, infertility and other problems. In this article, we will take a closer look at the relationship between endometriosis and childbearing.
Causes of endometriosis
The exact cause of endometriosis is still unknown. However, there are several theories about how endometriosis develops. One theory is that during menstruation, menstrual blood is not only excreted from the uterus, but can also pass backwards through the fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity. The cells contained in this blood can then colonize and grow elsewhere in the body, leading to endometriosis.
Another possible factor is the immune system. It is believed that women with a weak immune system are more susceptible to endometriosis because their body is not able to fight off abnormal cells.
Symptoms of endometriosis
The symptoms of endometriosis can vary from woman to woman. Some women have only mild symptoms, while others suffer from severe pain and other problems. The most common symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Menstrual symptoms such as severe cramps, bleeding and pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain during urination or defecation
- Pain in the lower back or abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting during menstruation
- Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant
Endometriosis and desire for children
Endometriosis can cause infertility in women because the abnormal growth foci can make it difficult for the egg to be captured and implant in the uterus. It is estimated that about 30-50% of women with endometriosis have difficulty getting pregnant. However, if a woman with endometriosis becomes pregnant, she is at a higher risk for complications during pregnancy.
Treatment options
There are several treatment options for endometriosis. One option is to take pain medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen to relieve pain. Hormonal therapies, such as taking hormone supplements, can help stop or slow the growth of endometriosis lesions. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove abnormal tissue growths.
In some cases, it may also be necessary to perform in vitro fertilization (IVF) to become pregnant. IVF is a procedure in which eggs are removed from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in the laboratory. The fertilized eggs are then returned to the uterus to develop. Women with endometriosis may have a higher chance of successful pregnancy with IVF.
In summary, endometriosis is a complex disease that can have various symptoms and effects. If a woman with endometriosis has difficulty getting pregnant, it is important to work with a reproductive medicine specialist to find the best possible treatment.
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