Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a common condition that may affect women during their reproductive years. Because this issue relates to infertility, it is an important topic for women’s health.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a gynecologic condition in which tissue cells that normally make up the inner lining of the uterus grows outside of this structure.
Why This Growth Is Problematic
The tissue that becomes implanted on the outer wall of the uterus continues to respond to estrogen. This means that it will grow and bleed in the same manner as internal uterine tissue. Irritation, inflammation, and swelling may result, as can adhesions, or scar tissue. The presence of adhesions creates a potential for organs to stick to one another. It also increases pain associated with menstruation.
The condition is also cited in approximately 40% of infertility cases in which the female partner cannot conceive. It is thought that infertility may stem from inflammation which blocks the movement of the sperm and the egg through the fallopian tubes to the uterus.
Endometriosis Symptoms
Pelvic pain is one of the primary indicators of endometriosis. Because most women experience some degree of cramping associated with menstruation, this can be a difficult symptom to fully understand. For some women, mild endometriosis can cause substantial pain. For others, minimal, if any pain may occur even with advanced endometriosis. Therefore, pain is not the best gauge for recognizing an underlying problem as endometriosis.
Additional symptoms that may alert you to abnormal uterine growth include:
- Lower back or abdominal pain that lingers several days into menstruation.
- Painful intercourse.
- Painful urination or bowel movements.
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding in between periods.
- Infertility
- Excessive bloating, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, or fatigue during menstruation.
If you experience any of these symptoms or other irregularities related to your cycle, schedule a consultation and exam with your healthcare provider. With an early diagnosis and a good understanding of your condition, endometriosis can be manageable.
Endometriosis Diagnosis
Gynecologists perform specific tests to discern the cause of pelvic pain and other menstrual irregularities. Diagnostic evaluation begins with a thorough medical history to assess risk factors and to characterize the condition based on the particulars of symptoms. In addition to a comprehensive history, physical diagnostics may also be necessary.
Endometriosis Treatment
Endometriosis treatment varies based on each patient’s situation. Conservative non-surgical treatments are generally attempted first. These may include:
Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility?
It is true that endometriosis is associated with infertility in women. However, early and proactive treatment for this condition can have a positive effect that enables a woman to have a healthy and successful pregnancy.