Services

Endometriosis care & fertility treatments

At SCCRM, we understand that the journey to parenthood can be challenging, especially when faced with the complexities of endometriosis and its impact on fertility. Endometriosis can lead to pain, inflammation, and scar tissue that may obstruct the reproductive organs, making conception more difficult. Despite these challenges, many women with endometriosis can successfully conceive with the right medical care and treatment plan. At SCCRM, our team specializes in diagnosing and managing endometriosis to help optimize your chances of achieving pregnancy.

Understanding endometriosis

What is endometriosis and how does It affect fertility?

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus begins to grow outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the outer surface of the uterus. This tissue behaves like the uterine lining, thickening and breaking down each month, but unlike the tissue inside the uterus, it has no way to exit the body. As a result, this can lead to inflammation, scarring, and the formation of adhesions, which can cause pain and affect fertility.

Endometriosis can impact fertility in several ways, though the severity can vary from person to person:

  • Blocked Fallopian Tubes: If the endometrial-like tissue causes scarring or adhesions around the fallopian tubes, it can block or damage them. This makes it more difficult for the egg to travel from the ovaries to the uterus, which can hinder conception.

  • Ovarian Health: Endometriosis can lead to the formation of cysts on the ovaries, which can affect the number and quality of eggs available for fertilization.

  • Inflammation: The condition often causes chronic inflammation in the pelvic region, which can interfere with the normal functioning of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus, reducing the chances of successful pregnancy.

  • Hormonal Imbalances: Endometriosis may disrupt hormone levels that are necessary for ovulation, potentially leading to irregular or absent ovulation, which can make it more difficult to conceive.

  • Uterine Environment: The condition can also affect the uterine lining, making it less receptive to a fertilized egg and impacting implantation.

While endometriosis can present challenges, many women with the condition are still able to conceive with the right treatments and care.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

Diagnosing endometriosis can sometimes be challenging because its symptoms overlap with other common conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Many of the symptoms—like pelvic pain, heavy periods, and discomfort during intercourse—are also found in other gynecological or digestive conditions. At SCCRM, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosis to ensure that we accurately identify endometriosis and understand its impact on your fertility.

  • During your initial consultation, we'll review any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse, or difficulty getting pregnant. A physical exam will help us assess your pelvic area for any signs of endometriosis.

  • While an ultrasound is not always able to detect endometriosis, it can help identify cysts (endometriomas) on the ovaries, which are common in women with the condition. In some cases, we may recommend other imaging tests like an MRI to get a clearer view of the pelvic area.

  • The most accurate way to diagnose endometriosis is through a minimally invasive surgical procedure called laparoscopy. During this procedure, a small camera is inserted through a tiny incision in the abdomen to look directly at the reproductive organs. If endometriosis is found, we may also perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

  • In some cases, blood tests may be done to rule out other conditions and evaluate hormone levels, although they cannot definitively diagnose endometriosis.

Treatment options

There are many treatment options for those with endometriosis to help improve fertility. These include hormonal therapies, laparoscopic surgery to remove endometrial tissue, and in vitro fertilization (IVF), which may involve egg retrieval. We also offer other options such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), egg freezing, and fertility medications.

  • Hormonal treatments may be used to manage symptoms and prepare your body for fertility treatments.

  • For severe cases of endometriosis, minimally invasive surgery may be recommended to remove endometrial lesions, scar tissue, or cysts. This can improve fertility and alleviate pain while preserving reproductive structures.

  • Our team creates individualized treatment plans based on the severity of your condition, your fertility goals, and your overall health.

  • If endometriosis impacts your ability to conceive naturally, SCCRM provides advanced fertility solutions, including:

    • In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Bypasses the fallopian tubes, offering a direct path to conception.

    • Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): A less invasive option for mild cases.

    • Ovulation Induction: Helps regulate ovulation for better chances of pregnancy.

Ready to learn more?

Get started today

While endometriosis can present challenges, many women with the condition are still able to conceive with the right treatments and care. At SCCRM, we are dedicated to helping you overcome the challenges of this condition and achieve the family you’ve always wanted. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward managing endometriosis and building your future. Together, we’ll create a plan to help you succeed.