Tags Archives: Fertility

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How Common is Infertility with Endometriosis

Endometriosis, a medical condition affecting women globally, often poses a significant question:

how common is infertility with endometriosis? This article aims to shed light on this critical question, discussing endometriosis and its relationship with fertility issues, the possible causes and treatments, and the hope that exists for women battling both endometriosis and infertility.

Understanding Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic disorder characterized by the growth of endometrial-like tissue (the lining of the uterus) outside the uterus, inducing a chronic inflammatory reaction. This misplaced tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and even on the bladder or intestines. The growths can lead to complications, including the formation of scar tissue and cysts, causing pain and potentially affecting fertility.

Read More: Can Endometriosis Be Treated Without Surgery? – Endometriosis Supportive Therapy

Prevalence of Endometriosis

Endometriosis affects an estimated 10–15% of women between 15-50. However, the prevalence dramatically rises to about 25%–50% in women with infertility. Despite the well-supported association between endometriosis and infertility, a causal relationship is yet to be definitively established.

Endometriosis and Infertility: The Connection

Endometriosis can impact fertility in multiple ways, leading to the following complications:

  • Impact on Gametes and Embryos: The increased number of inflammatory cells in the peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis can damage the oocytes (eggs) and sperm and even have toxic effects on the embryo.
  • Impairment of Fallopian Tubes and Ovarian Function: Endometriosis can lead to pelvic adhesions, blocked fallopian tubes, and damaged ovaries, which can hinder the process of ovulation and egg release, thus affecting fertility.
  • Endometrial Receptivity: The chronic inflammatory state induced by endometriosis can impair endometrial receptivity, affecting the implantation of a pregnancy.

Read More: Can Minimal Endometriosis Cause Infertility

Endometriosis-Associated Infertility: Treatment Approaches

The treatment for endometriosis-associated infertility usually involves a combination of medical and surgical interventions. The choice of treatment depends on several factors, including the age of the woman, the severity of the symptoms, the desire for pregnancy, and the extent of the disease.

Medical Treatment

Medical treatments for endometriosis aim to suppress the growth of endometriosis tissue and relieve symptoms. These treatments include hormonal therapies such as birth control pills, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, and progestins. However, these treatments do not improve fertility rates and are typically used to alleviate pain and other symptoms. They are temporary solutions.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical treatment aims to remove endometrial tissue and restore normal pelvic anatomy. Surgical options include laparoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure. Studies have shown that surgical treatment can improve fertility rates, especially in women with severe endometriosis.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

In cases where medical and surgical treatments are unsuccessful, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be considered. IVF involves the extraction of eggs from the ovaries, which are then fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are then transferred back into the uterus.

The Hope for Women with Endometriosis and Infertility

Despite the challenges posed by endometriosis, it’s crucial for women to know that having this condition does not necessarily mean they cannot get pregnant. With the right treatment approach, many women with endometriosis can successfully conceive and carry a pregnancy to term.

In conclusion, understanding how common infertility is with endometriosis is essential for providing effective treatment and support to women dealing with this condition. While endometriosis can indeed impact fertility, it’s important to remember that it’s not the end of the road. With advances in medical technology and treatments, many women with endometriosis are able to overcome their fertility challenges and fulfill their dreams of motherhood.

Read More: Life After Endometriosis Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide

References:

https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/fertility-blog/2016/august/endometriosis-and-fertility

https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/fact-sheets-and-infographics/endometriosis-does-it-cause-infertility/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3538128/

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fsurg.2014.00024

https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aogs.13082

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Can Minimal Endometriosis Cause Infertility

Endometriosis, a common gynecological condition, has been frequently associated with infertility. However, the question remains: can minimal endometriosis cause infertility? This comprehensive article aims to delve into the connection between endometriosis, particularly in its minimal stage, and fertility issues.

Defining Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a medical condition characterized by the growth of endometrium-like tissues outside the uterus. These tissues can adhere to various pelvic structures like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and even the intestines and bladder, causing irritation, inflammation, and scar tissue formation.

Stages of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is categorized into four stages:

  • Stage I (Minimal): Small endometriotic implants with no scar tissue.
  • Stage II (Mild): More extensive implants, involving less than 2 inches of the abdomen, without scar tissue.
  • Stage III (Moderate): Severe endometriosis with deep implants and possible formation of endometriotic cysts or ‘chocolate cysts’ in the ovaries.
  • Stage IV (Severe): Numerous endometriotic implants, possibly large endometriotic cysts in the ovaries, and scar tissue formation around the reproductive organs.

Read More: Understanding How Endometriosis Can Cause

The Connection Between Endometriosis and Infertility

It’s estimated that 30% to 50% of women with endometriosis may experience infertility. Even in cases of minimal or mild endometriosis, the disease may still impact fertility in numerous ways, including:

  • Distorted pelvic anatomy due to scar tissue and adhesions
  • Inflammatory response causing a hostile environment for eggs, sperm, and embryos
  • Altered immune system functionality
  • Changes in the hormonal environment affecting egg quality and embryo implantation

However, it’s essential to note that endometriosis does not necessarily equate to infertility. Many women with endometriosis, even in severe stages, can conceive naturally or with fertility treatments.

Exploring the Question: Can Minimal Endometriosis Cause Infertility?

The impact of minimal endometriosis on fertility is a contentious subject. The disease, even at its earliest stage, can cause inflammation and subtle changes in the pelvic environment, potentially affecting fertility. However, many women with minimal endometriosis conceive without issues, leading some researchers to suspect that other factors, possibly genetic or immunological, might be at play in cases of endometriosis-associated infertility.

Diagnosing Endometriosis

Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging, as many women with infertility migh experience no symptoms. The gold standard for diagnosis is a surgical procedure known as laparoscopy, allowing the doctor to visually inspect the pelvic organs for endometriotic lesions and scar tissue, and take samples for histopathology.

Read More: Life After Endometriosis Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide

Evaluating Fertility

Before initiating any fertility treatment, a comprehensive fertility evaluation is recommended. This includes hormonal and blood tests, an assessment of ovarian reserve, a sperm analysis for the male partner, and possibly a laparoscopy to confirm the presence and extent of endometriosis.

Read More: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: What you Need to Know

The treatment approach for endometriosis-related infertility is multifaceted, depending on the stage of endometriosis, the woman’s age, and the presence of other fertility factors.

Surgical Treatment

For women with Stage I or II endometriosis, surgical removal of endometriotic tissue may improve pregnancy rates. However, for women aged 35 or older, other fertility treatments might be recommended in addition to surgery.

Medical Treatment

Medical treatments aim to suppress endometriosis growth by reducing estrogen levels. However, these treatments, including hormonal contraceptives and Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) agonists, prevent pregnancy during use.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

In cases where pregnancy does not occur naturally or following surgery, ART methods such as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) may be recommended. The success rates of these treatments vary depending on the woman’s age, ovarian reserve, and specific fertility issues.

Conclusion: Can Minimal Endometriosis Cause Infertility?

While minimal endometriosis can potentially affect fertility, it does not guarantee infertility. A comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan can help women with endometriosis, even at minimal stages, to conceive successfully. However, further research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between endometriosis and fertility.

References:

https://www.brighamandwomens.org/obgyn/infertility-reproductive-surgery/endometriosis/endometriosis-and-fertility

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/endometriosis-treatment-of-infertility-in-females

https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/planning-a-pregnancy/fertility-and-causes-of-infertility/how-does-endometriosis-affect-fertility

https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/fact-sheets-and-infographics/endometriosis-does-it-cause-infertility/

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Endometriosis Guidelines: A Closer Look at a Potential Source of Confusion in Treatment Debates

Treatment strategies for endometriosis vary widely, with the primary objective being to alleviate pain and enhance fertility where necessary. However, the confusion and inconsistency in recommendations is alarming.  This article reviews and comments on some of the key current management strategies supported by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG), by way of Bulletin #114 (2010 and reaffirmed in 2022) and Bulletin #760 concerning adolescents (2018 and reaffirmed 2022). In the following posts, we will review other guidelines to give a more in-depth look at these inconsistencies and what you may face as you navigate your journey with endometriosis. 

Other internationally recognized bodies have published various guidelines seeking to help clinicians with the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis. Unfortunately, there is significant discrepancy between some of the recommendations due to the complex nature of the disease and limitations of research to date. Many patients will look to online resources and forums after seeing providers and not seeing results. What they may be surprised to find is that information on sites dedicated to endometriosis are often inconsistent with what is proffered by different guideline resources. 

Surgery

Surgery is considered a cornerstone in the management of pain and infertility associated with endometriosis. The timing of surgery and the type of surgery recommended varies between guidelines. However, it is illuminating to note that ACOG guideline Bulletin #114 states that “definitive diagnosis of endometriosis only can be made by histology of lesions removed at surgery.”

Minimally invasive surgery is highly preferred over open surgery (laparotomy) due to less pain, shorter hospital stay, quicker recovery, and better cosmetic results. However, a high level of skill and expertise is required to perform these procedures, whether it be laparoscopic or robotically assisted surgery. Despite better technology inherent in robotic surgery, outcomes research does not clearly show which modality is better overall.  However, the skill of the surgeon likely trumps the surgical tools used. Robotic surgery may be better suited for particularly difficult cases involving severely distorted anatomy due to advanced endo or scarring from repeat surgeries.  

The excision of endometriosis is widely recommended for patients with endometriosis-associated pain. However, there is ongoing debate on the preferred surgical technique (ablation versus excision) due to lack of conclusive evidence. Currently, the studies that look at excision surgery vs. ablation have significant limitations, potentially due to variation in the skill and training of the surgeons involved in these studies.  Meaning, studies to date may not have been done by true excision specialists and resulted in incomplete removal thereby skewing the research results.  This variation in surgeon expertise is a common plight affecting surgical procedure outcomes research. 

In ovarian endometriosis (endometriomas or chocolate cysts), minimally invasive excision of endometriomas is superior to drainage and ablation in terms of reducing recurrence of dysmenorrhoea, dyspareunia, cyst recurrence, and the need for further surgical interventions. 

In cases where women have completed their family planning and failed to respond to conservative treatments, hysterectomy with simultaneous excision of endometriotic lesions is considered the last resort. However, except for cases in which there is coexisting adenomyosis, hysterectomy is not necessarily required for pain relief purposes.  Each situation should be highly individualized. 

Medical Management of Endometriosis

While surgery is an effective treatment strategy and helps many patients, medical management currently plays a crucial role in managing symptoms and preserving fertility. These treatments primarily focus on pain management, hormonal suppression, and birth control.

Pain management is a critical aspect of endometriosis treatment. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used for symptomatic treatment of dysmenorrhea and acyclic pelvic pain. In fact, in their article discussing dysmenorrhea and endometriosis in adolescents, without any workup, ACOG believes that the majority of adolescents have primary dysmenorrhea which is defined as painful menstruation in the absence of pelvic pathology and recommends first line-therapies such as NSAIDs and birth control. The question is: without undergoing a definitive workup and assessment (surgery) for endometriosis and knowing that imaging is insufficient for diagnosis – how is it determined they do not have pelvic pathology? Furthermore, ACOG considers those that respond symptomatically to birth control pills and NSAIDs as a confirmation of primary dysmenorrhea, though some people with endometriosis also respond symptomatically to birth control pills and NSAIDs. 

Hormonal suppression, through the use of progestins, combined oral contraceptives, micronized progesterone, or Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues, is a common treatment strategy. This recommendation assumes that estrogen is responsible for endometriosis, but this is based on an incomplete understanding of endometriosis genesis and progression. Hormones are clearly involved but, based on increasing molecular evidence, this is not the sole factor in promoting growth of endometriosis. 

Birth control pills, specifically combined oral contraceptives, are often used as a first-line therapy for endometriosis-associated pain. This works by suppressing ovulation, which may help slow the growth of endometriotic tissue but has not been proven to induce regression or resolution. 


GnRH analogues are recommended as second-line treatment options for endometriosis-associated pain. They work by suppressing the production of estrogen, thereby theroretically reducing the growth of endometriotic tissue. Along these lines, ACOG states that “there is no data that support the use of preoperative medical suppressive therapy,” yet in clinical practice, many individuals are offered these medications inconsistently related to consideration or timing of surgery. Additionally, their level B evidence (second level) recommendations state “After an appropriate pretreatment evaluation (to exclude other causes of chronic pelvic pain) and failure of initial treatment with OCs (oral contraceptives) and NSAIDS, empiric therapy with a 3-month course of a GnRH agonist is appropriate.” It can be argued that this is extremely problematic given that there is no conclusive data to support the use of these medications prior to surgery. Finally, there is a significant  risk of short and potentially long term side effects and complications. 

Complementary Therapies

Complementary therapies such as dietary interventions, acupuncture, and electrotherapy are increasingly being recognized as potential adjunctive treatments for endometriosis. Quite a bit is evidence supported, but more research is needed to fully establish their efficacy and safety. Thus guidelines do not routinely address such options, leaving patients to their own devices and trial and error.  

In conclusion, the management of endometriosis requires a multi-faceted approach, incorporating both surgical and medical treatments which will be variable from patient to patient. In the past few years, there have been some improvements in the amount of research as well as advocacy. Finding a knowledgeable specialized surgeon and care team is of utmost importance.  The majority of OBGYNs do not focus on endo, have not undergone further specialized training and generally align with the guidelines set forth by ACOG, largely driven by perceived medico-legal concerns related to standard of practice.. Furthermore, other guidelines seem to differ in their opinions and recommendations regarding medical management and surgery, so stay tuned for more information.

Related reading:

  1. Find an Endometriosis Specialist for Diagnosis, Treatment, & Surgery
  2. Why was iCareBetter built? 
  3. What You Need to Know About Endometriosis Excision Surgery

References:

  1. Bulletins–Gynecology, A. C. o. P. (2000). ACOG practice bulletin. Medical management of endometriosis. Number 11, December 1999 (replaces Technical Bulletin Number 184, September 1993). Clinical management guidelines for obstetrician-gynecologists. Int J Gynaecol Obstet, 71(2), 183-196. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0020-7292(00)80034-x 
  2. ACOG Committee Opinion No. 760: Dysmenorrhea and Endometriosis in the Adolescent. (2018). Obstet Gynecol, 132(6), e249-e258. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0000000000002978 

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Can endometriosis cause miscarriage? Understanding Endometriosis and Its Impact on Miscarriage

Endometriosis is a prevalent health condition, affecting approximately 10% of women worldwide. It is often associated with chronic pain and infertility, but its potential connection to miscarriage is not as widely recognized. This article aims to shed light on the link between endometriosis and miscarriage, drawing on recent scientific research and expert insights.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, known as endometrium, grows outside the uterus. This tissue can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the lining of the pelvic cavity. Just as the inner lining of the uterus thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle, so too does the endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus. However, this displaced tissue has no way to exit the body, leading to various problems.

Read More: What causes endometriosis?

Pathogenesis of Endometriosis

Endometriosis develops in stages, with severity ranging from minimal to severe. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine groups endometriosis into four stages: minimal (Stage I), mild (Stage II), moderate (Stage III), and severe (Stage IV). The stages reflect the extent, location, and depth of endometrial-like tissue growth, as well as the presence and severity of adhesions and the presence and size of ovarian endometriomas.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

While some women with endometriosis may have no symptoms, others may experience:

  • Painful periods
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Pain with bowel movements or urination
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Infertility
  • Other signs and symptoms such as fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or nausea

Read more: 20 Signs and Symptoms of Endometriosis

Endometriosis and Pregnancy Complications

Endometriosis has long been associated with infertility, with studies indicating that up to 50% of women with infertility have the condition. However, less is known about its impact on women who do conceive. Emerging research suggests that endometriosis may increase the risk of several pregnancy complications, including preterm birth, cesarean delivery, and miscarriage.

Read More: How Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility? 

Endometriosis and Miscarriage: Understanding the Connection

Recent research has begun to explore the potential link between endometriosis and miscarriage. Miscarriage, also known as spontaneous abortion, is defined as the loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks of gestation. It is estimated that about 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. The actual number is likely higher, as many miscarriages happen so early in pregnancy that a woman might not even know she’s pregnant.

The Role of Inflammation

One theory proposes that the inflammation associated with endometriosis could interfere with the early stages of pregnancy. Endometriosis is characterized by chronic pelvic inflammation, which could potentially disrupt the implantation of the embryo or the development of the placenta.

The Impact of Surgical Treatment

Another factor to consider is the potential impact of surgical treatment for endometriosis. There have only been a few clinical trials and they do not indicate that surgical excision reduces the risk of miscarriage.  However, there are two very large databases from Sweden and Scotland that suggest a benefit to removing known endometriosis to lower pregnancy loss risk.  More research is required. 

Hormonal Factors

Endometriosis can alter the hormonal environment of the uterus, which could potentially impact early pregnancy. More research is needed to fully understand how these hormonal changes might contribute to miscarriage risk.

Research Insights: Endometriosis and Miscarriage Risk

Several studies have investigated the link between endometriosis and miscarriage. A meta-analysis published in 2020 in the journal BioMed Research International found that women with endometriosis had a significantly higher risk of miscarriage compared to women without the condition. This risk was particularly pronounced in women who conceived naturally, rather than those with tubal infertility who conceived through assisted reproductive technology (ART).

Coping with Endometriosis and Miscarriage

The potential link between endometriosis and miscarriage can come as distressing news. However, it’s important to remember that many women with endometriosis have successful pregnancies.  So, counseling and intervention really depend on the individual situation. With repeat losses, there are many potential reasons but it appears that endo can be one of them.  

Read more: Find an Endometriosis Specialist for Diagnosis, Treatment, & Surgery.

Conclusion

Endometriosis is a complex condition that can impact various aspects of a woman’s health, including her fertility and pregnancy outcomes. While research suggests a potential link between endometriosis and miscarriage, many women with the condition have successful pregnancies. If you have endometriosis or suspect you have endo, and having difficulty conceiving or experiencing pregnancy losses,  it’s crucial to seek consultation with an endometriosis specialist.   

Reference:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33490243/

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How Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility? 

Endometriosis, a complex and often misunderstood condition, can significantly impact a woman’s fertility. Understanding the intricacies of this condition, its causes, and its effects on fertility can be vital in paving the way for effective treatment strategies.

An Introduction to Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a benign, estrogen-dependent disorder primarily affecting approximately one in ten cisgender women in their reproductive years. It may also have an impact on transgender men, where the condition may be present in a higher percentage. While it has been reported in cisgender men, it is exceedingly rare. Thus the fertility impact discussed here is that which specifically affects the uterus, Fallopian tubes and ovaries.  

Endometriosis is characterized by the abnormal presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus. This abnormally growing tissue is often found in the pelvic region, such as on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the outer surface of the uterus. Still, in some cases, it can extend beyond the pelvic area.

While endometriosis affects approximately 10-15% of cisgender women in their reproductive years, the condition is more prevalent in those struggling with infertility, affecting up to 25%-50% of this demographic. The exact cause of endometriosis remains a subject of research and debate, and its impact on fertility is multi-faceted and complex.

Understanding The Pathogenesis of Endometriosis

While the precise cause of endometriosis is still under debate, several theories have emerged over the years, trying to explain the pathogenesis of this condition.

Retrograde Menstruation

The oldest theory is retrograde menstruation, which suggests that during menstruation, some of the endometrial tissue flows backward, through the fallopian tubes, into the pelvic cavity instead of leaving the body. These endometrial cells then attach to the peritoneal surfaces, proliferate, and form endometriosis implants.

Coelomic Metaplasia and Metastatic Spread

Other theories suggest that cells in the peritoneum can transform into endometrial cells, a process known as coelomic metaplasia. Alternatively, endometrial tissue may spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other parts of the body, a process known as metastatic spread. Both these theories could explain how endometriosis implants can be found in areas outside the pelvic region.

Altered Immunity

Another theory proposes that women with endometriosis have a compromised immune system, which fails to eliminate the endometrial cells that have migrated to the peritoneal cavity. This immune dysfunction may also contribute to the progression of the disease, as the immune system’s reactions may inadvertently promote the growth and proliferation of endometrial implants.

Stem Cells and Genetics

Recent research also suggests that stem cells and genetic factors may play a role in the development of endometriosis. Bone marrow-derived stem cells may differentiate into endometriosis cells, contributing to the formation of ectopic endometrial-like tissue.

Additionally, genetic predisposition may play a significant role in the development of endometriosis. People with a first-degree relative affected by the disease have a seven times higher risk of developing endometriosis.

Learn More: Current Knowledge on Endometriosis Etiology: A Systematic Review

How Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility?

Endometriosis can affect fertility through various mechanisms:

Effect on Gametes and Embryo

Endometriosis can impact the production and quality of oocytes (eggs), as well as sperm function and embryo health. The presence of endometriomas (cysts caused by endometriosis) and the inflammatory environment they create can negatively affect both oocyte production and ovulation.

Effect on Fallopian Tubes and Embryo Transport

Endometriosis can disrupt the fallopian tubes’ normal functioning and impact the embryo’s transport. The inflammation caused by endometriosis can impair tubal motility and cause abnormal uterine contractions, which can hinder the transportation of gametes (eggs and sperm) and embryos.

Effect on the Endometrium

Endometriosis can also impact the uterine lining or endometrium, which can lead to implantation failure. Research suggests that endometriosis can alter the gene expression in the endometrium, affecting its receptivity to implantation.

Read More: Learn More About the Connections Between Endometriosis and Infertility

Current Treatment Options for Endometriosis-Associated Infertility

The treatment of endometriosis-associated infertility is multi-faceted and can include expectant management, medical treatment, surgical treatment, and assisted reproductive technologies.

Expectant Management

While endometriosis significantly lowers fertility rates, some women with mild to moderate endometriosis can still conceive without any medical or surgical intervention. However, this approach may be more suitable for younger women with mild endometriosis and no other fertility issues.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery can be both diagnostic and therapeutic in the context of endometriosis. The goal of surgical treatment is to remove or reduce endometriosis implants and restore normal pelvic anatomy and reduce the inflammatory impact. This could potentially improve fertility, particularly in women with severe endometriosis.

Assisted Reproductive Technology

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is currently the most effective treatment for endometriosis-associated infertility. IVF can be particularly beneficial for women with severe endometriosis or those for whom other treatments have failed.

Medical Treatment

Medical treatment for endometriosis primarily targets reducing the severity of the disease and relieving symptoms. Hormonal medications such as combined oral contraceptives, progestins, danazol, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists or antagonists (GnRH analogs) are commonly used. However, these medications have not shown any significant benefit in treating endometriosis-associated infertility.

Read More: Natural, Medical & Surgical Treatment of Endometriosis Infertility

Looking Towards The Future: Potential Treatments

As our understanding of endometriosis deepens, new potential treatment options are emerging, such as therapies targeting the abnormal gene expression and inflammation caused by endometriosis. Furthermore, stem cell therapies and genetic interventions hold promise for treating endometriosis-associated infertility in the future. As research continues, the hope is that these advancements will lead to more effective strategies for managing this complex condition and improving fertility outcomes in those with endometriosis.

Read More: How Do Endo Fertility Issues Impact the Mental Health of a Person?

Reference: Macer ML, Taylor HS, Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2012 Dec;39(4):535-49.

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How Do Endo Fertility Issues Impact the Mental Health of a Person?

Endometriosis (endo) can cause many issues. Endometriosis patients may have difficulty becoming pregnant or maintaining a full-term pregnancy. Up to 70% of women with endometriosis get pregnant without medical treatment. However, 30 to 50% of patients with endo experience fertility issues and may need endometriosis fertility treatments or surgery. Up to 50% of all women with infertility have endometriosis. According to the abstract in a study published in the International Journal of Women’s Health:

“The most common clinical signs of endometriosis are menstrual irregularities, chronic pelvic pain (CPP), dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia and infertility. Symptoms of endometriosis often affect psychological and social functioning of patients. For this reason, endometriosis is considered as a disabling condition that may significantly compromise social relationships, sexuality and mental health.”

Read More: How Do Endo Fertility Issues Impact the Mental Health of a Person?

Why Are Women Impacted Emotionally By Reproductive Disorders?

A plethora of reasons exists as to why women can experience deep emotional impact by a diagnosis of a reproductive disorder or a condition that could cause issues with fertility. Some women already worry about getting pregnant anyway, so an endometriosis diagnosis surely doesn’t help. Here’s a shortlist of some reasons reproductive issues can affect the emotional health of women with endometriosis:

  • Pressure to conceive right away
  • Worries about each stage of the pregnancy, from implantation to delivery
  • Pressured to have a child, even if the person is unsure or not ready
  • Possible medical interventions, such as IVF
  • Stress and emotional drainage that can result from endometriosis fertility treatments
  • Possible laparoscopy endometriosis surgery

Multiple studies demonstrate that a woman’s ability to conceive and bear a child plays a big part in her emotional health and self-esteem. While many women don’t want to have children, a large portion does. But, they might not be ready for a baby when they receive their endometriosis diagnosis. According to a study out of the Iranian Journal of Reproductive Medicine:

“While infertility is not a disease, it and its treatment can affect all aspects of people’s lives, which can cause various psychological-emotional disorders or consequences including turmoil, frustration, depression, anxiety, hopelessness, guilt, and feelings of worthlessness in life.”

Read More: How Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility?

Endometriosis Patients with Fertility Issues Need Emotional Support

Most endometriosis patients with fertility issues benefit by having a mental health provider as part of their multidisciplinary team.

Endometriosis impacts many facets of a person’s life. A recent study concluded that:

“Furthermore, there is an urgent need to develop and evaluate interventions for supporting women and partners living with this chronic and often debilitating condition.”

Endometriosis Facts

All Endometriosis Patients Could Benefit From Emotional Support

Many endometriosis patients with fertility issues express no desire to have children. Therefore, some women are unaffected by infertility that might arise from endo. However, it’s essential to keep these women in mind because their feelings matter, too. Perhaps some did not want to have kids now but were hoping to someday in the future? Or maybe they are just not with the right person to have children with them? 

Whatever the case may be, it’s significant that healthcare providers do not overlook a patient’s emotional needs, even if they say it doesn’t bother them if they cannot have kids. Perhaps a person in this situation may not need as intense emotional support, but they should see a mental health provider have a chance to talk about these feelings and think them through. Some interventions can help one conceive or be ready to conceive even with an endometriosis diagnosis. However, it’s significant to remember that the further the disease has progressed, the more complex it is to treat it to regain fertility. Therefore, when you are unsure if you want to have a baby, it’s still wise to have all the lesions removed as soon as you can and conduct proper follow-up.

Seeking a Mental Health Provider Experienced With Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a complex and often misunderstood disease. Therefore, women who battle this condition daily, especially those with fertility issues, require a mental health professional familiar with this inflammatory disorder. 

Endometriosis encompasses many domains of a patient’s life, and fertility issues are not the only things that impact women’s emotional health. When seeking out a professional, it’s critical to find someone familiar with the disease and its emotional impact on patients.

Importance of Friends and Family

In addition to adding a robust mental health provider to your team, it’s also essential that you seek support from your loved ones. Please encourage them to attend appointments with you to have a better understanding of the condition. When the people closest to you can comprehend the emotional roller-coaster accompanying infertility, they will be better prepared to support you emotionally. 

When a patient receives a diagnosis such as endometriosis, pain management, and other care items often become the priority. Therefore, it can be easy to overlook the emotional aspect of this condition, especially in someone with fertility issues. This is why it’s essential to do your research and find an experienced endometriosis expert to head up your team.

Do You Have Fertility Issues Caused By Endometriosis?

We want to hear from you. What are your thoughts on the emotional challenges? Do you have a solid mental health provider on your team? Leave your responses in the comments below.

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Endometriosis and Pregnancy: Natural, Medical, & Surgical Options

Natural, Medical & Surgical Treatment of Endometriosis Infertility 

Endometriosis (endo) is a common condition that affects up to 10% of all women globally. But most people do not realize this condition’s impact on a significant proportion of women. Endometriosis and pregnancy complications are a common coincidence. Up to 50% of women with infertility have endo.

Endometriosis and pregnancy can be problematic for patients. And sometimes, endometriosis treatments are needed to conceive. Keep reading to learn more about fertility options for women with endo.

Read More: How Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility?

Lack of Evidence-Based Research Stalls Treatment Options

Endometriosis is sometimes like the elephant in the room that no one wants to discuss or do enough research. However, that needs to change because endometriosis is often a disabling condition, and people should know about it. Not only does this condition impact the patient’s quality of life, but it also affects the potential for some of these patients to have a family. This situation can affect a marriage, other family members, a partner, etc.

Options for treating women with endometriosis and pregnancy issues can be natural, medical, surgical, or surgery-assisted. Let’s review the latest fertility treatments and courses of action for women affected by endometriosis. First, we will briefly discuss how endometriosis and pregnancy are related. 

Can You Get Pregnant with Endometriosis?

Natural

Getting pregnant with endometriosis is not always easy, but it’s a reality for most patients who have the condition and want to conceive. It’s important to emphasize that the body can and still does get pregnant. There are things such as an endometriosis diet that might help. Let’s look at the good numbers. Up to 70%, according to some studies, of women with mild to moderate endometriosis will become pregnant without medical intervention.

Medically-Assisted

Statistics show that about 75% of women with severe endometriosis (stage III/IV) will conceive if they desire. Two-thirds of those pregnancies occurred naturally, and one-third with the help of the endometriosis fertility treatment.

If you have endometriosis and are having troubles getting or maintaining a pregnancy, and you wish to carry full-term, here are some medical options that may interest you:

  • Freeze some eggs: Your ovarian reserve of eggs can decline due to endometriosis. Therefore, some endo specialists recommend preserving your eggs in case you wish to conceive later. Just note that this can be an expensive option.
  • Superovulation and intrauterine insemination (SO-IUI): If you have normal fallopian tubes, mild endometriosis, and a partner with healthy sperm, this might be the best choice for you.
  • Fertility medications: Doctors can prescribe medications to produce up to two or three mature eggs. There are also progestin injections that are often used to help fertility issues. 
  • Frequent ultrasounds: If a person is trying to get pregnant, they may go in for frequent ultrasounds to identify when the eggs are most mature. At that time, a doctor can insert the partner’s collected sperm.
  • In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF): This treatment involves the extraction of the egg and sperm. The egg is fertilized outside the body and then implanted into the uterus.

Endometriosis Surgery For Infertility

Many women with endometriosis do become pregnant without medical assistance. However, studies suggest that endometriosis surgery does help a woman to become pregnant without difficulty. 

  • Removal of endometriosis tissue: Evidence shows that pregnancy rates improve if the endometriosis tissues are removed surgically.
  • Removal of tissue or large endometriosis cysts: Large cysts and tissue accumulation can contribute to infertility. Removing these can help the patient conceive.
  • Routine follow-up: Women with endometriosis often have cysts that relapse after treatment. It is crucial to complete follow-up visits and possibly have complementary surgeries down the road.

How Your Stage of Endometriosis Impacts Fertility

A diagnosis of endometriosis is a heavy thing to take in, primarily since it’s known to impact a woman’s reproductive organs. Studies have shown that the extent of endometriosis present during laparoscopy correlates with fertility.

Do You Have Concerns About Endometriosis and Fertility?

We want to hear from you. What is your biggest concern about the fertility impact of endometriosis? Or does it concern you at all? Leave your answers in the comments below. If you need medical attention that is not emergent, be sure to find a vetted endometriosis specialist who is familiar with the disease and modern treatments.

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Endometriosis and Fertility: Statistics, Facts, & Fiction

Debunking the Myths Surrounding Endometriosis and Reproduction

Disinformation about endometriosis and how it can impact reproduction is thick. As a matter of fact, not just endometriosis and fertility, the entire disorder is shrouded in junk information, and so it often goes misunderstood and mistreated. To learn more on this topic, read our previous article, titled: “Endometriosis Facts and Myths: Dispelling the Misconceptions.”

Does endometriosis cause infertility? In some cases, yes. However, in most cases, women with endometriosis can and do get pregnant without any medical assistance or intervention of any kind. There is still a myth that if you become pregnant, that can manage the endometriosis (endo) symptoms and even help resolve disease progression. 

This statement couldn’t be further from the truth, and it’s an example of a widespread myth about endometriosis and fertility. Furthermore, this school of thought can put additional pressure on women with endometriosis to get pregnant as quickly as possible once they get a diagnosis. As you can imagine, this dangerous misinformation can alter their expectations in terms of treatment for fertility and their outlook on endometriosis in general.

So, Can You Get Pregnant If You Have Endometriosis?

The real truth is that the connection between endometriosis and reproduction is complex. Can you get pregnant if you have endometriosis? Yes, many people can and do. However, having the right endometriosis specialist to help you along the way can make all the difference in your journey. Click here to learn more about finding vetted endo specialists near you. In this article, we will review the disease and lay out the facts regarding endometriosis and fertility.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is an inflammatory disorder in which tissue similar to the uterus lining grows in places outside the uterus. Often these growths happen on the surface of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other organs within the pelvic cavity – such as the bladder or bowel. In some cases, these endometriosis growths have occurred in distant organs.

Endo growths can cause pain, scarring, and sometimes infertility. Because this tissue is similar to the uterine lining, it also bleeds and sheds once a month during hormonal changes. Typically in the uterus, this period tissue and blood have a means of escaping through the vagina. However, this blood and tissue often accumulate inside the body with endometriosis and causes inflammation and pain. As one can imagine, over time, scar tissue growths with subsequent menstrual cycles develop. Eventually, this scar tissue can fuse organs, immobilize organs, and even damage the fallopian tubes.

Alarming Statistics About Endometriosis & Fertility 

  1. Endometriosis is widespread, affecting between six and ten percent of the general female population. That’s more than 170 million worldwide.
  2. In patients with pelvic pain, infertility, or both, endometriosis frequency is higher – between 35 percent to 50 percent.
  3. Between 25 percent to 50 percent of infertile women have endometriosis.
  4. Between 30 percent to 50 percent of women with endometriosis are infertile.
  5. Endometriosis affects approximately the same number of women around the world that have diabetes.
  6. The cost of endometriosis in the US is between $86 Bn – $116 Bn. 
  7. It takes, on average, eight years from the onset of symptoms for a patient to get a diagnosis. This can impact all patients, but especially those of who wish to keep their fertility intact.

Endometriosis Facts About Fertility and Reproduction

  1. There are ways to get pregnant with endometriosis.
  2. Hormonal therapy does not cure endo. 
  3. Endometriosis is related to your menstrual cycle and hormonal changes within your body. 
  4. Endometriosis tissue can be removed during laparoscopy. Depending on the location of the growths and the extent of damage, this can sometimes restore fertility.
  5. There is a type of endometriosis that can cause cancerous lesions, typically dark chocolate brown. 
  6. The causes are uncertain, and there is no “cure” for endometriosis.
  7. Genes seem to play a role in the occurrence of endo. 

Myths About Endometriosis and Fertility 

  1. Pregnancy is not a cure or a way to relieve symptoms of endometriosis. Women should not be pressured or encouraged to get pregnant to help with endometriosis and fertility or alleviate pain or other symptoms. While some women experience less endo pain and symptoms during their period, that does not mean it works the same for all women.
  2. Do not believe any physician that tells you a hysterectomy is the “gold standard” treatment for endometriosis. As mentioned above, there is no “cure” for endometriosis. Until a specialist is inside the body and can view the number and the placement of the endometriosis lesions, they cannot decide whether a hysterectomy would even solve the problems. Also, some women might make themselves infertile (whether they mind or not, it is an emotional part of this disorder) by having a hysterectomy done that was never needed. 
  3. You do not need to have a major medical procedure to get an endometriosis diagnosis or remove some growths and lesions. With modern equipment, skilled specialists, and advanced technology (often robotic surgical equipment), you can have endometriosis diagnosis and treatment with laparoscopy. This type of procedure is minimally invasive and only leaves behind a few puncture wounds. 
  4. Abortion does not cause endometriosis. 
  5. Endometriosis does not cause ovarian cancer. Although a type of endo involves cancerous tumors, this does not mean that having endometriosis makes you more likely to develop cancer.
  6. The most important myth to bust is that there is no treatment for endometriosis. Just because there is no “cure” for this pelvic inflammatory disorder does not mean there are no treatment options, even when it comes to endometriosis and infertility.

If you have endometriosis, what is the most common thing you have heard regarding endo and reproduction?

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Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility? Covering the Basics

Learn More About the Connections Between Endometriosis and Infertility

Endometriosis (endo) diagnosis can be a frightening thing. Very frightening. While this inflammatory condition can be binary or non-binary, women of child-bearing age are prone to issues with reproduction due to endo. So does endometriosis cause infertility? Keep reading as I break down the basics on this topic. I will also discuss the emotional impact on patients.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition. In this disease, endometrium-like lesions (the tissue that lines the uterine walls) grow outside the uterus. These glands or stroma cause chronic inflammatory reactions. Endometriosis tissue can occur on the surface of other body parts in the pelvic cavity and distant organs such as the diaphragm, lung, and heart. 

Because these endometrial-like lesions shed blood and tissue, many problems result. Pain is a common symptom because the blood and tissue have no way to leave the body. This pressure can result in unbearable pain and other symptoms. If you would like to learn more about what endometriosis is, check out our previous article.

What Happens When Endometriosis Does Cause Infertility

It can. 25 to 50% of women with infertility have endometriosis, and 30 to 50% of women with endometriosis have infertility. However, it is very encouraging to know that most women with endometriosis can become pregnant

This statistic is significant. Many younger women with this disorder feel psychological effects due to the possibility of not being able to have kids. Not all patients carry this same sentiment. Growing numbers of people do not want to have children. However, for those who do, these thoughts and emotions about fertility can be devastating. Then, endometriosis patients who do conceive often worry about the pregnancy and subsequent delivery of the baby.

How Endometriosis and Fertility are Connected

The association between endometriosis and infertility is well-established. However, there may be multifactorial reasons why it occurs, including molecular, mechanical, environmental, and genetic causes. 

There are some theories to explain infertility in endometriosis. The following are just a few:

  • Inflammation leads to the production of chemicals known as cytokines. These cytokines can inhibit the egg and sperm from meeting each other, which makes fertilization more difficult.
  • Endometriosis-related scarring and adhesions can block the fallopian tubes or uterus space. This blockage makes it difficult for the sperm to meet the egg and implant in the endometrium.
  • Endometriosis lesions on the ovaries can inhibit ovulation and block the release of an egg.

Read More: How Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility?

Other Data on Endometriosis and Reproduction

Studies have also demonstrated that the enzyme, Aromatase may also play a role in endometriosis infertility. There is an abnormally high level of this enzyme in the endometrium and endometriosis lesions in patients with endometriosis. In the uterus, this enzyme may affect both natural endometrial development and its receptivity for the implantation of the fetus. 

Progesterone is another hormone that may play a role in implantation failure. Resistance to this enzyme can affect reproduction, as it is necessary for a normal pregnancy. In some studies, progesterone receptors displayed abnormalities and caused dysregulation in the endometrial layer of the uterus in patients with endometriosis. Levels of progesterone should increase with pregnancy, but with endometriosis, this process is delayed and can cause an unopposed estrogen state that cannot sustain fertility.

Endometriosis Infertility Treatment Options

Patients with endometriosis do have a substantial risk of infertility or problems getting pregnant. According to studies, the amount of endometrial-like tissue visible during a laparoscopy correlates with the possibility of future fertility. For this reason, if you have endometriosis and would like to become pregnant, early treatments for endo and fertility are crucial. This is because the stage of endo might progress within time, which increases the risk of infertility.

Laparoscopy: A Common Treatment for Endometriosis

Can endometriosis cause infertility? Yes, in some patients. However, in most cases, endo does not entirely prevent conception. Traditional treatments for endometriosis approached most cases of endo with total hysterectomies. But these approaches are now outdated. New science-based evidence shows that hysterectomies and oophorectomies are not always needed. That is because these surgeries do not often work to remove all the endometriosis tissue. 

A skilled endometriosis specialist goes in the pelvic and abdomen with thin tubes and excises the endometrial-like tissue for best surgery results. This surgery often requires OB-GYN surgeons with advanced training in endometriosis treatment. It typically involves advanced surgical equipment, such as laparoscopy, robotics, and AI technology. 

Now let’s review the endometriosis treatment options in the context of pregnancy and fertility.

Medical Treatment Options for Endometriosis

  • Ovarian suppression, such as hormonal therapies or oral contraceptives, is not recommended for women who wish to conceive. This highly-debated advice gained support from a large study that found no difference in pregnancy rates and live birth rates in patients with endometriosis who took a hormone vs. placebo.
  • An endometriosis diet by nutritionists that work on endo can be helpful. The diet can help increase the patient’s likelihood to conceive with endometriosis and maintain that pregnancy to a full-term birth.
  • The Guideline Development Group (GDG) does not recommend the prescription of adjunctive hormonal treatment before surgery in infertile women with endo.

Surgical Treatment Options for Endometriosis

  • The goals of surgery are to remove all macroscopic endometriosis implants and return the pelvic cavity to normal anatomy. While these are the goals, not all surgical procedures or endometriosis specialists will stop this inflammatory disorder or restore the pelvic cavity to its normal anatomy.
  • It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of surgical intervention.
  • Endometriosis minimal invasive surgery by an expert is the preferred surgical procedure because:
    • It causes minimal damage to the tissue.
    • It’s assisted with magnification.
    • There is a relatively fast recovery time.
    • Mostly only a short hospital stay is involved.

How Women with Endometriosis Suffer Emotional Impact

Women who deal with endometriosis reproductive problems may experience a variety of feelings, such as:

  • Stress
  • Worry
  • Grief
  • Confusion
  • Anger
  • Sadness
  • Feelings of inadequacy

As mentioned above, over 30% of women with fertility problems have endometriosis. If a woman is already distressed about becoming pregnant, the shock of an endometriosis diagnosis may amplify those emotions. 

Furthermore, women with endometriosis may feel further pressure to have kids sooner to increase their likelihood of success. But, that’s not always practical. Some do not have a partner or might not even know if they want to have kids. Perhaps they are with someone who does not wish to or is not ready for kids. They might also be with someone they have not been with for very long, so they are unsure if they want children. Many factors can cause stress on women with endo to try to get pregnant right away.

For those ready and trying to get pregnant, fertility issues caused by endometriosis may also create feelings of frustration, hopelessness, and sadness. These feelings are the reasons why it’s crucial to incorporate a mental health expert as part of your holistic endometriosis treatment team.

Psychological Impact of Fertility Treatment for Endo Patients

Furthermore, a whole new slew of emotions comes with those patients who move on to endometriosis fertility treatment. Excitement. Happiness. Disappointment. Sadness. You and your partner can do these things to help prepare for these possible feelings:

  • Prepare and be ready for the emotional journey ahead
  • Cope with grief and loss associated with unsuccessful prior attempts or miscarriages
  • Develop strategies for coping with the news of other people’s births and pregnancies
  • Keep the communication lines between you and your partner open and discuss feelings throughout the entire process

Did endometriosis cause infertility issues for you? How has that impacted your life?

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Endometrioma 101: Understanding Deep Ovarian Endometriosis

Your Guide to Ovarian Endometrioma: Treatment, Symptoms, Doctors, Etc.

Endometrioma (deep ovarian endometriosis) can be difficult to treat due to controversies and challenges surrounding the best approaches, treatment, and diagnosis. Many of these hurdles result from misunderstandings about the condition and underlying disease process – deep ovarian endometriosis.

If you suffer from these ovarian endometriosis lesions, our sincere thoughts go out to you. Often known as “chocolate cysts,” some consider endometriomas as the most severe threat to a woman’s reproductive system (aside from cancerous tumors found in the reproductive tract). Furthermore, these lesions don’t always respond well to medical treatment and can potentially ruin the health of ovarian tissue. This article will help you understand endometrioma, symptoms, and deep ovarian endometriosis treatment.

Get the pdf Version of this article

Table of contents:

1- What is Endometriomas (Deep Ovarian Endometriosis)? 

2- Recurrence of The Lesions Following Surgery

3- linical Impact of Endometriomas (in Women of Reproductive Age)

4- Major Concerns

5- Treatment and Surgery Options

6- Final Thoughts and Question for Readers

What is Endometriomas (Deep Ovarian Endometriosis)? 

Endometriomas happen when endometrial-like tissue grows inside the ovary or sometimes outside. Endometrioma is very common and affects between 17-44% of endo patients. Endometriomas are typically an advanced form of endometriosis, meaning stage three or four.

Surgery is often necessary to remove the endometriomas. However, eliminating endometrioma cysts and capsules is an advanced procedure and needs excellent skills. This surgery can potentially lead to partial or complete loss of ovarian function, especially if done by less experienced surgeons. These cystic masses can cause extreme challenges for women undergoing fertility treatments, i.e., assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

Endometriomas are dark-fluid-filled cavities, and they can present in a variety of shapes and sizes. An ultrasound can show suspected cases of endometrioma, but confirmation needs surgery and histology. Therefore, getting a diagnosis of endometrioma can be riddled with challenges.

Recurrence of The Lesions Following Surgery

On our social media accounts, we receive many questions about the topic of endometrioma recurrence. We took to Instagram to get the responses from endometriosis specialists about this recurrence. Here are some of their responses:

“It depends on several factors including the age of the patient, method of surgery, the experience of the surgeon, etc. In the literature, recurrence rates of over 30% have been reported, although I have personally not seen that high of recurrence risk.”

“We’ve had ovarian recurrence rates of less than 10 percent in our two years of follow-ups of about 85 patients with ovarian endometriomas.”

“What’s important is to completely free the ovary and excise the peritoneum or uterosacral ligament it was adherent to, apart from excising the cyst. This will truly help reduce recurrence rates compared to just doing a cyst excision and leaving peritoneal disease behind.”

“I share the same opinion, in my center, our recurrence rate is less than 8% a good technique and excision of all zone of endometrioma even peritoneal improve outcomes, also as previously said it depends on many factors like endometrioma size, multiple endometriomas, and post-op treatment.”

“We have a very low recurrence rate. This is because often, during surgery, only the visible endometrioma cysts are removed. Anything under 2 cm is out of our visual field.”

Clinical Impact of Endometriomas (in Women of Reproductive Age)

Endometriomas does not cause infertility in all women it affects. However, studies show that between 25% to 50% of women with infertility have endometriosis, and 30% to 50% of women with endometriosis have infertility. However, that does not mean that endometrioma will necessarily cause infertility in women of reproductive age, especially when diagnosed and treated early with the best-practice treatments that have evolved over the years. 

One of the leading fertility challenges is that ovarian lesions affect the number of eggs in ovarian tissue. Endometrioma can also impair the maturation of the egg and cause the woman to have a lower antral follicle count (AFC) and Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). Also, women with endometriomas often have high follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels.

Major Concerns:

  • Intense pelvic pain
  • Possible infertility
  • Decrease ovarian function
  • It can place women of child-bearing age at a higher risk of cancer

Treatment and Surgery Options

Treatment for endometriomas will vary from person to person. The number of lesions and the staging of the disease progress are just a couple of the factors that will influence the right treatment plan for you. 

Treatment for Females of Reproductive Ages

Many OB-GYNS and other healthcare providers still practice old treatments for endometriosis that don’t effectively manage the disorder. It’s a complicated condition. Thus, there are many myths and misconceptions about endometriosis

Women of reproductive ages who wish to maintain fertility should have a fertility specialist in their multidisciplinary endometriosis team. Women with endometriomas may respond to some of the following treatments: 

Non-surgical treatments: These treatment options are temporary choices to manage pain and complications in the short term.

  • Medication therapy 
  • Observation

Surgical treatment: this may include:

  • Drainage
  • Laser ablation
  • Capsule excision (the procedure of choice for most top experts)

Final Thoughts and Question for Readers

Have you had to deal with endometrioma? If so, please share how it has impacted your endo journey.

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