Conceiving with endometriosis: What patients should know
For women with endometriosis, we offer hope. For more than 30 years, Robert Anderson MD has served area patients with clinical expertise and compassionate care. From diagnosis to treatment, the entire team at the Southern California Center for Reproductive Medicine focuses on each patient’s goals. Dr. Anderson and partner Don Royster MD, are committed to helping our patients achieve success, offering effective treatments that support conceiving with endometriosis.
Fast facts about endometriosis
Characterized by tissue that grows outside the uterine walls, endometriosis affects an estimated 6 million American women and is a leading cause of infertility.
- Approximately 10 percent of women ages 15 to 44 experience endometriosis.
- Doctors characterize endometriosis in stages from 1 (mild) to 4 (severe) based on the spread of the endometrial tissue.
- According to ASRM, 24 to 50 percent of women dealing with infertility have endometriosis.
- Some women have mild endometriosis and severe symptoms, while others have few symptoms, but a more serious case of the condition.
Learn why conceiving with endometriosis can be challenging
Just like in the uterus, the misplaced clumps of endometrial tissue grow, but they have no way to exit the body like the uterine lining does with a woman’s period. In many cases, the tissue will attach to the reproductive organs, which can cause pain, scarring and problems in conceiving with endometriosis.
There are several common signs of endometriosis, but some women experience no symptoms at all.
- Painful menstrual cycles
- Discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Heavy and/or irregular periods
- Pain during urination or bowel movements
- Infertility
Endometriosis treatment options
While there is not a cure for endometriosis, your doctor can offer endometriosis treatment to lessen symptoms and improve the odds of pregnancy. First, your physician will review your menstrual cycle history, perform a pelvic exam, conduct a sonogram and order diagnostic tests to confirm the condition. Endometriosis treatment may involve pain medication; hormone therapy; and ultimately, surgery to remove scar tissue and adhesions.
The journey to parenthood begins here, and we will walk with you every step of the way. Don’t let discouragement stop you from reaching your dreams. Call our office for more information on conceiving with endometriosis or to make an appointment with one of our Newport Beach Fertility center experts.