Possibility Of Getting Pregnant With Endometriosis?

Can I get pregnant while having endometriosis? This is a client’s query that prompted us to discuss endometriosis and its impact on fertility and pregnancy—with all of you.

The obsession to further our genes is age-old and inherent. We are proud to help couples overcome impediments (like endometriosis) and become parents with our treatments.

Endometriosis is a one-such uterine condition that impedes fertilisation and pregnancy and may cause infertility in some cases. According to an eminent journal, 30% to 50% of women with endometriosis may experience infertility. That means endometriosis and infertility have some correlation. 

Let's discuss this in detail!

What is endometriosis, and how does it affect pregnancy?

Endometriosis is a uterine condition in which tissue similar to endometrial tissues, i.e. tissues of the uterus lining, grows outside the uterus. These tissues may grow on the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and other nearby pelvic organs, causing issues like:

• Pelvic inflammation
• Blockage in fallopian tube/tubes
• Reduced uterine cavity (the lining growth may occupy the uterine cavity)
• Menstrual and ovulation irregularities.

Endometriosis can cause pain, especially during menstruation, and may impact fertility and pregnancy.

Signs and symptoms of endometriosis

Endometriosis symptoms may include

• Chronic pain in the pelvic region, especially during menstrual periods
• Pain during sex
• Painful bowel movements or urination during periods
• Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
• Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant

What may cause endometriosis?

Although there is no specific cause, there are several factors that may cause endometriosis, which includes

• Retrograde Menstruation: This occurs when menstrual blood with endometrial cells flows back into the pelvic cavity through the fallopian tubes and stagnates instead of expelling from the body.
• Genetics: Endometriosis may run in families, suggesting a genetic component to the condition.
• Immune System Dysfunction: An altered immune system may be unable to detect and destroy endometrial tissue that has grown outside the uterus.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Estrogen dominance, or a state in which estrogen levels are higher than normal, has been linked to the development of endometriosis.
• Surgery: Endometrial tissue can sometimes spread to other parts of the body during abdominal surgeries such as C-sections or hysterectomies.

Risks and complications with endometriosis

Not all women with endometriosis have pregnancy or fertility complications; however, the condition may impose health risks like

1. Preterm Delivery: A delivery that occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
2. Placenta Previa: It is a condition in which the placenta covers the cervix, blocking the baby's path during delivery. This risk is higher in individuals undergoing surgery to treat their endometriosis.
3. Preeclampsia: A condition of constant high blood pressure that may damage functioning of organs such as the liver and kidneys during pregnancy.
4. Cesarean Delivery: A surgical procedure for delivering a baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen. 

Typically, women learn about having endometriosis accidentally while having pelvic scans. However, awareness of its symptoms may reduce its risks with proper treatment for endometriosis for better management of its symptoms.

Possibility of getting pregnant with fertility treatments while having endometriosis

The possibility of getting pregnant with endometriosis depends on various factors, such as the severity of the condition or the woman's age. 

Endometriosis can impact fertility by causing scarring and distortion of the pelvic organs, making it difficult for the egg and sperm to fertilize and implant in the uterus.

Our experts at MMC IVF diagnose your condition and suggest the following treatment solution for pregnancy.

1. Fertility Medications: The fertility drugs such as clomiphene may be prescribed to help produce two to three mature eggs. Doctors may also suggest progestin injections.
2. Ultrasound Monitoring: To monitor egg maturity, regular ultrasound exams may be performed during the fertility journey. Once the eggs are mature, the partner's collected sperm is inserted.
3. Egg freezing: If endometriosis has impacted your ovarian reserve, the doctor may suggest preserving your eggs for future pregnancy. However, this option can be expensive and typically not covered by insurance.
4. Superovulation and IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): This option is suitable for individuals with normal fallopian tubes, mild endometriosis, and whose partner has no fertility problems.
5. IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): This treatment involves retrieving an egg from you and sperm from your partner and fertilizing it in the lab in-vitro. Once the embryo is formed, the zygote (matured embryo) is placed in the uterus.

IVF Success Rates:

 The success rate of IVF for individuals with endometriosis is about half of those with other fertility issues; however, many people with endometriosis have successfully gotten pregnant through IVF treatments. Therefore, it is often recommended for those with moderate to severe endometriosis or for individuals whose bodies have not responded to other treatments.

The success rates of IVF for those with endometriosis are about half of the success rates of those with other reasons for fertility issues. But many people with endometriosis have successfully gotten pregnant thanks to IVF treatments.

IVF is often recommended for people with moderate to severe endometriosis or for those whose bodies haven’t responded to other treatments.

However, it is important to note that many individuals with endometriosis successfully conceive and give birth to healthy babies. It is crucial to discuss your conception options with your doctor even before you start trying to conceive. If you have been trying for 6 months without success, talk to our experts for the best suggestions.

With a cumulative experience of more than 25 years at  MMC IVF, we endeavor to make your journey toward parenthood fruitful and pleasant. 

Book an appointment with our experts, and discuss your gynecological or fertility-related issues.