The Endometriosis Roadblock
Endometriosis is a disease that impacts the reproductive system in women where uterine lining tissue begins growing in other parts of the body. Along with causing painful periods, uncomfortable bowel movements, and even excessive bleeding during menstruation, the disease can also impact fertility. According to research, roughly 30 to 50% of women that are diagnosed with infertility can point to endometriosis as a root cause. The tissue overgrowth is ranked by four stages, with stage I being mild and IV being more extreme with scarring, fallopian tube blockage and ovarian damage that can make natural conception significantly harder. However, holistic and medical strategies might be the solution for women with endometriosis.
Natural conception takes time
Having endometriosis doesn’t mean that a woman can’t get pregnant, but the process might take more time. In particular, people diagnosed with stage I or II have higher chances of getting pregnant naturally. However, even for women in the ideal age range for conception, which is usually 35 or younger, the timeline is extended. Whereas most people aged 35 or younger should conceive within a year of trying, endometriosis could shift that target significantly. Because of that difference, many women turn to assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Focus on Improving Health
A critical step for people with endometriosis, or any woman trying to conceive, is to improve health before getting pregnant. For example, incorporating a healthier diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and even managing stress are all key factors that can impact hormone levels which ultimately influence pregnancy. Likewise, adding in a supplement like a prenatal vitamin can help to fill in any nutritional gaps and create a more welcoming uterine environment for an embryo.
Start Tracking Menstrual Cycles
Endometriosis can create irregular periods which can make tracking ovulation tricky. Experts recommend either using an ovulation predictor kit which relies on identifying hormone levels from urine samples, or logging basal body temperature first thing in the morning. If getting a basal body thermometer, or remembering to take a temperature immediately after waking up but before getting out of bed is unrealistic, then opt for the ovulation predictor kit which can be easier to manage.
When natural doesn’t work
Even after making lifestyle changes and tracking ovulation, endometriosis can still make natural conception difficult. After six months to a year of trying, consider meeting with a fertility specialist to get evaluated and determine next steps. For many people, IUI may be the first fertility treatment attempted. The process is less invasive and can be more affordable since the process only involves inserting semen into the uterus while a woman is ovulating. Sometimes, participants might take hormone supplements to boost success rates.
When endometriosis is more severe
A stage III or IV endometriosis diagnosis may require more invasive methods for women trying to conceive. The first step may involve surgery to remove excess endometrial tissue followed by recommending IVF. The fertility treatment is often the best option when fallopian scarring is present or tissue overgrowth is severe. Likewise, the required hormonal drugs can regulate the menstrual cycle and increase egg production.
Building a family even with endometriosis
Endometriosis can be a frustrating disease that not only impacts a woman’s body, but can make life goals like building a family difficult. While outcomes will always vary based on the individual, being diagnosed with the condition doesn’t mean that getting pregnant is impossible. Women diagnosed with endometriosis who want to start or grow a family should consider speaking with a fertility specialist.
