Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus. This tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, leading to inflammation, scarring, and adhesions.
Endometriosis and Infertility at a Glance
What is Endometriosis? Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, often causing pain, infertility, and abnormal bleeding.
Common Affected Areas Fallopian tubes, ovaries, the outer surface of the uterus, and the pelvic cavity lining.
Symptoms Chronic pelvic pain, heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding, pain during intercourse or bowel movements, and infertility.
Prevalence Affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, with 30-40% experiencing infertility.
Treatment Options Hormone therapy, surgical removal of endometrial tissue, and advanced reproductive technologies such as IVF.
What Causes Endometriosis?
Retrograde Menstruation Menstrual blood flows back into the pelvic cavity instead of exiting through the vagina.
Genetic Predisposition A family history of endometriosis increases risk.
Immune System Disorders An impaired immune response may fail to eliminate endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus.
Hormonal Factors Estrogen appears to promote endometrial tissue growth.
Environmental Factors Exposure to toxins like dioxins may contribute to the condition.
How Endometriosis Impacts Fertility
Endometriosis can interfere with fertility in several ways:
Pelvic Adhesions and Scarring Impede the movement of eggs through the fallopian tubes.
Blocked Fallopian Tubes Prevent fertilization.
Ovarian Cysts (Endometriomas) Affect egg quality and ovulation.
Inflammatory Response Alters the uterine environment, reducing the likelihood of implantation. Even in severe cases, effective treatment options can significantly improve the chances of conception.
Diagnosing Endometriosis
At Sakalli IVF, we employ advanced diagnostic tools to confirm endometriosis:
Detailed Medical History Review of symptoms and family history.
Pelvic Examination Identifying tenderness or masses.
Ultrasound Imaging Detecting cysts or abnormalities in the pelvic organs.
Laparoscopy A minimally invasive procedure offering a definitive diagnosis by visualizing and sampling endometrial tissue.
Recognizing Endometriosis Symptoms
While some women remain asymptomatic, common symptoms include:
Chronic pelvic pain, often worsening during menstruation.
Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
Pain during intercourse, bowel movements, or urination.
Fatigue, bloating, or nausea, particularly during menstrual periods.
Treatment plans at Sakalli IVF are tailored to your specific needs, whether addressing pain or improving fertility:
Pain Management
Medications Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief.
Hormone Therapy Options include oral contraceptives, GnRH agonists, and progestin therapy to suppress the growth of endometrial tissue.
Lifestyle Adjustments Regular exercise, acupuncture, and stress-reduction techniques.
Surgical Intervention
Laparoscopic Surgery Removes endometrial implants and scar tissue while preserving fertility.
Advanced Techniques Use of lasers or cauterization for precision removal of lesions.
Severe Cases Hysterectomy and oophorectomy may be considered for women not planning future pregnancies.
Fertility Treatments
Ovulation Induction and IUI For mild to moderate cases.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) An effective option for severe cases, bypassing the fallopian tubes and optimizing fertilization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, many women with mild to moderate endometriosis conceive naturally. However, advanced stages may require medical intervention.
Pain can be managed through medications, hormone therapy, and lifestyle changes. For severe pain, surgical options are available.
Not always. While it increases the risk, many women with endometriosis successfully conceive with or without treatment.
Most patients recover within 1-2 weeks, though complete healing may take a few months.
IVF has a high success rate for patients with endometriosis, especially in severe cases or when other treatments have failed.
Success Stories
“After years of painful periods and failed attempts to conceive, Sakalli IVF offered us hope. The team’s expertise and care guided us through a tailored IVF journey, and today, we are proud parents of a healthy baby boy. Their dedication changed our lives.”
