Did you know that an estimated 10% of women in childbearing age in Spain suffer from endometriosis?
This condition is characterised by the growth of a tissue similar to the lining of the uterus in other places, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Do you know what the impact of endometriosis is on fertility? Do you know what options exist to become a mother whilst being diagnosed on this pathology? We will explain them to you below.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis can sometimes be difficult, as symptoms often vary considerably and many other disorders could cause similar symptoms. However, some of the symptoms that are associated with this pathology are:
- Pelvic pain
- Dysmenorrhoea that interferes with daily activities
- Dyspareunia: persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs before, during or after sexual intercourse.
- Discomfort, constipation or diarrhoea during the period
Diagnosis can be made based on the patient's symptoms, pelvic examinations, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging or laparoscopy.
How does endometriosis affect fertility?
It is estimated that between 30 and 50% of women with endometriosis have fertility problems, a figure which significantly increases as they delay childbearing. It should be kept in mind that there are different degrees and extent of endometriosis.
The full mechanisms by which endometriosis affects fertility are currently unknown. However, there are different theories about the possible causes. Some of them are:
- Low ovarian reserve: Endometriosis generates inflammation by different mechanisms and may lead to the destruction of the healthy ovarian tissue leading to a decrease in ovarian reserve.
- Poor oocyte quality: this condition results in the release of factors that are toxic to the proper development of the oocyte.
- Altered vaginal microbiome: although whether this is a cause or a consequence, it is still under investigation.
- Abnormalities in the fallopian tubes due to alterations in their function.
What are the options for women who want to become mothers but suffer from endometriosis?
This pathology is progressive where age is a determining factor for fertility. For this reason, one option could be egg vitrification . Freezing the eggs when the endometriosis is not yet in advanced stages helps to preserve fertility.
Although artificial insemination would be an option in young patients with patent tubes and male with good sperm quality, when in the presence of endometriosis, it is not a recommended treatment,This is due to the fact that pregnancy rates are very low and consequently, in vitro fertilisation is increasingly recommended if there is a good ovarian reserve or egg donation and the ovarian reserve is compromised.
Would you like to take a sterility test? Do you need more information about your specific case?
The first visit in Barcelona IVF is free of charge. Ask for it now and consult us in case of any doubts.
