The Link Between Endometriosis And Fertility
An endometriosis diagnosis does not automatically mean that a woman will have fertility struggles. However, difficulty getting pregnant with the condition is common. Around 30-50% of women with endometriosis also struggle with conceiving naturally. But getting pregnant with endometriosis is possible. Try these 5 lifestyle changes to improve fertility.
1. Find your healthy weight
Being both overweight and underweight are associated with lower fertility. Women who are not at healthy weights often experience disruptions in the menstrual cycle, making pregnancy more difficult. One study found that up to 12% of ovulatory infertility cases are due to being underweight, and 25% are due to being overweight.
2. Limit all substances
Smoking, alcohol, and caffeine consumption can all affect fertility. Tobacco causes premature aging of the ovaries and depletion of eggs. Heavy alcohol use is associated with an increased risk of infertility. Women who are trying to conceive should avoid alcohol altogether. Although small amounts of caffeine are fine, try to limit intake to 200mg or less per day.
3. Exercise some, but not too much
Exercise is essential for stress reduction, weight management, and cardiovascular health. However, exercising too much or too strenuously can inhibit ovulation. Women who are trying to get pregnant may consider lowering exercise to less than 5 hours weekly. Avoid overly strenuous activities like running for long distances.
4. Lower your stress
When stress is high, the chances of getting pregnant lower. Too much stress can mess with a woman’s hormones, leading to difficulty conceiving. Stress, anxiety, and depression are common in women undergoing fertility treatments. Getting counseling, practicing meditation, or journaling are all common strategies for reducing stress levels.
5. Prioritize sleep
Sleep is an often-forgotten health habit. But getting enough sleep is just as crucial for a healthy life as diet and exercise. Sleep also affects stress levels and hormone production. Aim for 7-9 hours per night. Women may consider improving sleep hygiene by avoiding screens before bedtime and making the bedroom a calm, dark environment.
Treatment for endometriosis
There are a variety of treatment options for endometriosis. These options may change slightly when a woman is trying to conceive. Typically, pain medication or hormonal medication are the first lines of treatment for endometriosis. In some cases, a woman may consider a laparoscopic surgery or hysterectomy to treat the condition. To learn more about fertility treatment with endometriosis, speak with a fertility specialist.
