In some women, tissues normally found in the uterus develop elsewhere within the body. This is known as endometriosis, which is associated with pelvic pain and painful periods, along with other health effects.
This medical condition can frequently lead to infertility when the fallopian tubes and ovaries are impacted by the development of displaced endometrial tissue. Endometriosis can also form behind the uterus, on the inner lining of the abdomen and pelvis, and less common areas (such as the lungs and bladder).
Some people with endometriosis never develop symptoms, while others may experience intense discomfort and other health effects. The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, which usually intensifies right before or during menstruation. Some people also experience pain in the back and abdomen. Other symptoms include:
Depending on where uterine tissues develop, endometriosis can also cause infertility. For instance, endometrial tissues may obstruct the fallopian tubes, which decreases one’s chance of conception.
Medical researchers are not entirely sure what causes endometriosis, but it can sometimes result from retrograde menstruation. If menstrual blood flows backwards and remains in the pelvic cavity, it can take cells from the inner uterine lining and deposit them outside of the uterus. Should these cells continue to grow, endometriosis can occur.
Endometriosis may also result from other causes, such as:
While anyone can develop this health condition, risk factors for endometriosis include:
Family history can also play a role, as having a family member with endometriosis can elevate your risk.
Because pain tends to increase with menstruation, hormonal birth control can reduce the intensity of period symptoms and the effects of endometriosis. Additionally, drugs like gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and danazol prevent periods completely by suppressing the hormones that cause menstruation. Doctors also recommend over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen to manage discomfort.
When a person’s symptoms cannot be controlled with medication alone, doctors will recommend surgery. Laparoscopic procedures can also improve fertility by removing patches of endometriosis from the ovaries and fallopian tubes. In the event symptoms are severe and conception is not a consideration, your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy, which will prevent endometriosis from returning later.
Some women will see an improvement in their fertility after receiving surgery for endometriosis. In the event that a couple is unsuccessful at conceiving six months to a year after the procedure, they may want to explore in vitro fertilization (IVF).
IVF involves numerous tests and procedures to improve the chance of conception. Patients will also need to take hormones while undergoing the process. Though IVF can be extremely helpful for many people, not everyone is able to conceive.