She Strengthens

Can You Get Pregnant with Endometriosis?

Living with endometriosis can be a challenge, especially when it comes to getting pregnant. The good news is that it’s not impossible. While the condition can make conception trickier, there are treatments and strategies that can help.

Understanding Endometriosis and Fertility

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other parts of the body, leading to pain and sometimes fertility issues. Research suggests that endometriosis may be responsible for up to 50% of infertility cases. The condition can affect fertility in several ways, including:

• Blocking the path of the egg and sperm during conception
• Impairing ovulation
• Triggering an immune response that attacks the embryo
• Reducing fertility due to chronic inflammation and scar tissue

Getting Pregnant with Endometriosis

While it’s more challenging to get pregnant with endometriosis, it’s not impossible. Treatment options, such as surgery and assisted reproductive technology (ART), can improve your chances. If you have stage 4 endometriosis, you may need medical attention to make pregnancy possible.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

If you’ve been diagnosed with endometriosis, it’s essential to discuss your pregnancy plans with your doctor. They can help you develop a plan for trying to conceive, which may involve surgery and fertility treatments. If you suspect you have endometriosis, talk to your doctor about getting diagnosed and treated.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Common symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Painful periods
• Chronic pelvic pain or lower back pain
• Pain during or after sex
• Painful urination or bowel movements
• Intestinal pain
• Bleeding between periods
• Digestive problems, especially during your period

Treatment Options for Endometriosis-Related Infertility

If you’ve been trying to get pregnant for 6 months to a year without success, your doctor may suggest the following treatments:

• Conservative surgery to remove endometrial-like tissue
• Freezing your eggs to preserve viable eggs for future pregnancy
• Hysterosalpingogram to check if your fallopian tubes are open
• Medication to induce ovulation or increase egg production
• Ultrasound to monitor egg development and ovulation
• Intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF)

Success Rate of Getting Pregnant with Endo

According to a 2014 review, 2-10% of couples with endometriosis will have children in their lifetime. Surgery may increase pregnancy rates, with studies suggesting that laparoscopic surgery can improve pregnancy rates to 57-69% for moderate endometriosis and 52-68% for severe endometriosis. IVF may also improve pregnancy rates.

Naturally Improving Conception Chances

Beyond medical treatments, improving your fertility with endometriosis involves maintaining overall health and well-being. Here are some tips to boost your chances of getting pregnant:

• Eat a varied diet to hit all essential nutrients
• Track your cycle to plan sex around ovulation
• Engage in daily exercise
• Reduce stress through yoga and meditation
• Get enough sleep

How Endometriosis Affects Pregnancy

Having endometriosis doesn’t guarantee pregnancy complications, but it does increase the risk of certain issues. Your doctor may recommend extra monitoring during pregnancy to address potential complications.

Will Your Kids Also Have Endometriosis?

There is a hereditary link to endometriosis, with studies showing that siblings, parents, and children of people with endometriosis are 5-7 times more likely to have the condition.

The Takeaway

Endometriosis makes getting pregnant more difficult, but not impossible. By staying healthy, working with your healthcare team, and exploring treatment options, you can improve your chances of getting pregnant. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.