Endometriosis is a cause of female infertility. Endometriosis occurs when the uterine tissue grows outside the uterus. It is typically found on the reproductive organs, such as the ovaries, outside of the uterus and the fallopian tubes. When I had trouble conceiving my first baby, I visited the doctor to find out why. It turned out that I did have endometriosis.
Common Symptoms of Endometriosis:
* Painful menstrual periods
* Heavy periods
* Pain during intercourse
* Pain after intercourse
* Problems conceiving
You may have endometriosis even if you don’t have all these symptoms. When I was diagnosed, the only problems I had were painful periods and I was not getting pregnant. If you have any of the above symptoms, talk to your doctor about the possibility of endometriosis. This condition gets worse with each period, so catching it early is key to preserving your fertility.
During each cycle, the tissue outside the uterus responds as it does in the uterus. This means it will bleed and spread. The inflammation causes scar tissue to form on the ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes. This can interfere with your ability to get pregnant.
Endometriosis is diagnosed with the use of a laproscope. Usually the doctor will remove it at the same time. Further treatment depends on the stage. Endometriosis is classified in four stages: minimal, mild, moderate or severe. Treatments include the use of surgery and medications to help remove and shrink the tissue.
The exact cause of endometriosis is not known. There are a few theories about how it happens. One popular theory is that there is a back flow of blood through the fallopian tubes and out into the abdominal cavity. Another suggested theory is that the condition is genetic. The cells form outside the uterus when the baby is developing. Neither theory has been proven and research continues into the causes.