Approximately 10% of all women of reproductive age suffer from endometriosis, many without knowing it. Up to 50% of those who have infertility have endometriosis.
Reasons why women with endometriosis have trouble conceiving include:
– Widespread disease in the pelvis leading to distortion of the ovaries and tubes
– Tubes being blocked due to scar tissue
– Inflamed pelvic tissue causes the release of chemical that prevent implantation of an embryo
Where there is a will, there is a way
If you’ve been having problems conceiving and endometriosis is thought to be the culprit don’t despair. There are many options available which have successfully helped women with endometriosis become pregnant.
Treatments
The first step is to confirm the diagnosis and check both you and your partner, just to be sure endometriosis is the ONLY issue. The next step is to decide which assisted reproductive technology (ART) to use. Cost can play a role in this choice unfortunately:
Intra-uterine insemination (IUI) – the sperm is artificially inserted into the uterine cavity to give a better chance of finding its egg.
In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) – the eggs are artificially inseminated before being introduced into the uterus
What are the chances of becoming pregnant with endometriosis?
Endometriosis does seem to cause infertility and conception problems, but it’s not a lost cause. While approximately two thirds or suffers are unable to conceive…a whopping ONE THIRD do get pregnant once they begin treatment – what is the source of this statement – I don’t think it is correct – too many other confounders to make a sweeping statement – a 25 yo woman with endo has WAY better success than a 39yo with endo. In clinical terms that’s a very good chance of success.
Don’t wait, conceiving is a precious gift and we can help.