6 Reasons To Test for Endometriosis During Infertility Treatment

Infertility affects a signifixt number of people, yet in many cases, the underlying cause remains unclear. Endometriosis may disrupt fertility efforts without causing obvious symptoms. An endometriosis diagnosis helps lead to more targeted fertility treatment to achieve a successful pregnancy. Here are reasons to test for endometriosis when facing unexplained infertility:

Endometriosis Can Obstruct Your Fallopian Tubes

Endometrial lesions on or around the fallopian tubes can physically obstruct the passage needed for sperm and egg to meet. Blocked fallopian tubes prevent conception because sperm cannot swim up through the uterus and tubes to fertilize the egg. Laparoscopy allows doctors to visualize any endometrial blockages. Surgical removal improves fertility by clearing the tubes so fertilization and implantation may occur.

Endometriosis lesions can release inflammatory cytokines that damage egg maturation, fertilization, and embryo development. This leads to poor implantation and pregnancy rates in those pursuing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Testing for endometriosis when you face infertility can help.

Hormonal Dysfunction

Endometriosis also disrupts hormone signaling and could interfere with ovulation. The endometrial lesions release estrogen, which suppresses the natural LH surge needed for ovulation. Without proper LH signaling, follicles containing eggs do not rupture from the ovaries. This is called anovulation and prevents fertilization from occurring. Hormone dysfunction may require assisted reproduction technologies.

Endometriosis-Related Pain

Endometriosis can lead to severe menstrual cramps, pain during intercourse, pelvic discomfort, and symptoms affecting the bowel or bladder. Having endometriosis diagnosed not only may help with fertility issues but it can also address other painful symptoms. There are various therapeutic techniques to manage endometriosis symptoms and improve the quality of life for women undergoing infertility treatment. Comprehensive care focuses on both pain and pregnancy goals.

Endometriosis May Cause Miscarriages

Endometrial function is needed to support embryo implantation and pregnancy. Endometriosis may cause lesions to appear and alter the normal development of the uterine lining. These changes may make it difficult for embryos to implant or sustain early pregnancies. Women with endometriosis face higher rates of repeated miscarriages before getting a diagnosis. Testing provides a possible underlying reason for pregnancy loss, and treatment offers the opportunity to minimize chemical interference for healthy pregnancies.

The inflammatory reaction triggered by endometrial lesions damages the structure and function of the fallopian tubes. This increases the chance of an egg implanting inside the tube instead of reaching the uterus. Such ectopic pregnancies can rupture the tube. A diagnosis allows close monitoring and prompt intervention if an ectopic pregnancy occurs.

Endometriosis Diagnosis Informs Fertility Treatments

Doctors recommend treating any diagnosed endometriosis before starting fertility drugs or assisted reproduction. Laparoscopy with lesion excision combines diagnosis and treatment, helping to improve fertility plans. Pregnancy rates can improve after surgical management of endometrial implants in unexplained infertility cases. Addressing the root cause offers a chance for the success of advanced fertility treatments like IVF.

Endometriosis Fertility Risks Increase with Age

Endometriosis is a progressive disease, with lesions potentially growing larger and more fibrotic over time. This increases the chances they could damage reproductive organs and start to affect fertility. Watching for early signs of endometriosis, even if subtle, aids the diagnosis. While not curable, endometriosis is treatable and can be stabilized. Treating it may also be in future fertility efforts.

In advanced endometriosis, the lesions and subsequent scarring can lead to structural malformations in the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries. Diagnosing endometriosis before it reaches such severe stages could preserve reproductive anatomy and enhance fertility potential. Early treatment prevents the need for more radical reproductive surgeries and treatments later on.

Test Endometriosis in Unexplained Infertility

Talk to your doctor about having laparoscopic surgery to look for endometrial lesions. Those small incisions offer insight into whether endometriosis may be interfering with fertility. Information gained through testing helps couples make informed decisions about their reproductive options. Seek answers to help clarify any unexplained infertility today.