Endometriosis affects more than 10 million people in the US1, but the illness is frequently misdiagnosed (or is misdiagnosed). Many people who suffer from this painful illness will attempt to become pregnant at some point, which can be a challenging process. what is good news? Endometriosis can affect a woman’s ability to become pregnant. What you should know about endometriosis and fertility is provided below.
The World Health Organization estimates that endometriosis affects roughly 1 in 10 people who are born with uteruses each year worldwide. The majority of people with endometriosis are between the ages of 30 and 40,2 and up to half of those who are affected struggle to conceive.
Most people with endometriosis are still able to have children, despite the fact that the condition can be painful and make conception more challenging. However, receiving the right care and encouragement is crucial because endometriosis that is left untreated can result in pain, surgery, and additional fertility issues.
Endometriosis is an inflammatory, estrogen-dependent condition in which endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus. The breakdown of this tissue and the inflammation response each month can cause scar tissue to form, and even make organs to “stick” together, leading to chronic pelvic pain in reproductive-aged women or people born with a uterus, as well as these other common symptoms.
Pain before, during, and after a menstrual period
A family history of endometriosis or pelvic pain
Frequent or persistent sharp and/or dull pelvic pain
Pain during intercourse
Pain during bowel movements or urination
Bladder pain
Generalized abdominal discomfort
Not everyone with endometriosis has pain or symptoms, though. It’s only once they try to conceive that doctors may diagnose the disease by ultrasound, a pelvic exam, abdominal surgery or after a trial of medication.
Related: Yes, you *can* get pregnant with PCOS. A fertility expert shares how
