Endometriosis and Infertility Treatment

Endometrial implants are generally benign. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrial stroma and glands, which should only be located inside the uterus) is found elsewhere in the body. Endometriosis affect an estimated 89 million women (usually around 30 to 40 years of age who have never been pregnant before) of reproductive age around the world. Endometrial cells are the same cells that are shed each month during menstruation. The cells of endometriosis attach themselves to tissue outside the uterus and are called endometriosis implants. Endometriosis can also cause scar tissue and adhesions to develop that can distort a woman’s internal anatomy. In advanced stages, internal organs may fuse together, causing a condition known as a "frozen pelvis."

It is estimated that 30-40% of women with endometriosis are infertile. Endometriosis is a condition caused by excess estrogen created each month in the female body. Endometriosis is thought to be an auto-immune condition and if the immune system is compromised with a food intolerance. The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. Other symptoms may include diarrhoea or constipation (in particular in connection with menstruation) ,abdominal bloating (again, in connection with menstruation) heavy or irregular bleeding and fatigue. Classic endometriosis appears as small, raised, bluish areas that have been described as “powder burns” or “blueberry spots.”

The treatment options for endometriosis include surgery , hormone treatment and complementary therapies. Gestrinone – is a synthetic hormone that causes the endometriosis to become inactive and waste away. Oral contraceptive pill – the pill is frequently used to achieve long-term suppression of endometriosis. It can be used to stop the disease progressing in women with mild disease or to stop the disease from recurring following surgical or hormonal treatment. Danazol – this mild form of the male hormone testosterone reduces the amount of oestrogen produced by the ovaries to around the same level as occurs during menopause. Antiprostaglandin medications can help to control any associated pain.

Endometriosis Treatment Tips

1. Birth control pills help shrink endometrial tissue and improve pain for most women.

2. The oral contraceptive pill is frequently used to achieve long-term suppression of endometriosis.

3. Exercise, yoga and meditation can all help with your general sense of well-being.

4. Hysterectomy – the uterus is removed, along with endometrial implants, cysts and adhesions.

5. Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) may be all that you need to control pain.

6. Hormone therapy may be offered before or after the surgery, depending on the circumstances.

Juliet Cohen writes articles on pregnancy information and ovarian cyst.

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