Endometriosis

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a major contributor to female infertility, affecting approximately 25–30% of women struggling to conceive. This condition occurs when the endometrium – the tissue that normally lines the uterus—starts growing outside the uterine cavity. In such cases, the tissue may spread to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the peritoneum, or even the intestines.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Around 30–50% of women diagnosed with endometriosis experience challenges with fertility. The most common symptom associated with this condition is pain, which can present in various forms, including:

Menstrual cramps or pain during periods
Discomfort or pain during intercourse
Difficulty conceiving (infertility)
Lower abdominal pain
Pain in the lower back
Discomfort in the pelvic area, rectum, or vagina
Digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, or bloating
Urinary problems, especially during menstruation

The pain associated with endometriosis is often cyclical, typically intensifying before and during menstruation and easing afterward. However, in some cases, individuals with endometriosis may not exhibit any noticeable symptoms at all.

What are the Causes of endometriosis?:

The exact cause of endometriosis remains unclear, but several possible factors have been identified:

Retrograde menstruation
Genetic predisposition
Immune system dysfunction

Though specific risk factors are not fully established, certain conditions may increase the likelihood of developing endometriosis:

Low Body Mass Index (BMI)
Alcohol consumption
Smoking

Treatment Approaches
Treatment varies depending on the patient’s age, the severity of symptoms, and fertility goals.

For young, unmarried women, hormonal therapy is often effective in managing pain.
For those seeking to conceive, laparoscopic surgery followed by assisted reproductive techniques like IVF/ICSI can be beneficial.
In milder cases, laparoscopic removal of lesions followed by IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) may improve pregnancy chances.

Lifestyle Tips During Treatment

While medical treatment is essential, lifestyle habits play a supportive role. Consider the following: