Endometriosis and Infertility
Female infertility can come in different forms. Sometimes women will need to deal with the viability of their eggs or blockages in their fallopian tubes. Other times anatomical issues will be the root cause of the infertility issue. Many times, however, health conditions that women face will result in infertility or at least some major hurdles to cross in order to get pregnant. One such health condition is endometriosis. It’s a potential causes of female infertility you may not be familiar with it. That’s why the team at our Houston fertility center would like to go over this matter right now.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis refers to a condition in which the tissue lining the inside of the uterus (the endometrium) begins to grow outside of the uterus. The endometrium thickens and then eventually breaks down and bleeds during the menstrual cycle. Often these endometrial cells that form outside of the uterus will accumulate on the ovaries as well as other structures in the pelvic cavity.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
Endometriosis often results in pain (particularly of the uterus and the lower abdominal area, and during or after intercourse), heavy bleeding during the menstrual cycle, fatigue, bloating, and infertility.
How common is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is not particularly common. It’s estimated that between 6% and 10% of all women suffer from this health condition. Regardless the numbers, the team at our fertility clinics in Houston are eager to help address this issue because we understand just how serious it can be to you and your loved ones.
Causes of Endometriosis
One of the possible causes of endometriosis is retrograde menstruation. This occurs when menstrual blood that contains endometrial cells does not leave the body as usual. Instead this menstrual blood winds up in the pelvic region via the fallopian tubes. The endometrial cells then attach themselves to other structures and organs in the pelvis and grow.
Treatment Options for Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition that cannot be cured, but the symptoms of endometriosis can be successfully managed in a number of ways. Pain relievers and hormone therapy are often the first treatment option used, both of which can help manage the pain associated with the condition. If non-surgical treatments do not prove effective, doctors will perform surgery to remove any sorts of endometrial growths. The absolute last resort is a hysterectomy.
Treatment Options for Endometriosis and Infertility
As for addressing issues with endometriosis-related infertility, we have a number of fertility treatments and patient services to consider, such as Houston IVF, surrogate carriers, egg donors, and so on, each of which can prove effective for starting the family that you have always wanted. During your visit, we will be sure to go over all of the options available for treatment and care so that you can make the best possible decision based on all of your options.
Learn More About Fertility Treatment
If you or someone you love is dealing with endometriosis and infertility and would like to learn more about treatments and other options for starting the family you have always wanted, be sure to contact our Houston fertility clinic today. The entire team here looks forward to your visit and discussing all of your options for care in greater detail.
