5 Reproductive Health Concerns Connected to Endometriosis
Endometriosis is when you have abnormal growth of cells similar to the ones that line the inside of your uterus. You can experience painful periods and have a hard time getting pregnant due to endometriosis. Seeking help from a medical professional can help you increase your chances of getting pregnant and managing the symptoms. Here are some reproductive health concerns that are connected to endometriosis:
1. Infertility
Your normal menstrual cycle consists of the shedding and regrowth of the lining in your uterus. With normal growth, the lining grows and thickens in preparation for a potential pregnancy. If your egg is not fertilized, the lining sheds and leaves your body through your period. Your ability to bear children depends on your reproductive system’s proper functioning and the health of your eggs and sperm.
Endometriosis can cause fertility issues by preventing your egg from fertilizing and blocking your fallopian tubes. Your ovulation cycle can also be affected, making it harder for your egg to reach the uterus and contact sperm. Contacting an infertility specialist may allow you to get an accurate diagnosis to counter the condition.
2. Pelvic Pain
One of the symptoms of endometriosis is consistent pelvic pain that you experience during your period. The pain is due to inflammation, which can cause scarring in your pelvic area. You may feel pain when urinating if the condition spreads to your bladder.
Talking to a reproductive health expert can help you get a timely diagnosis and likely reduce the pain. After a diagnosis, you should be prescribed medications to relieve the symptoms and advised on proper ways to manage your condition. Your sample tissues are tested for endometriosis for an accurate diagnosis.
3. Ovarian Cysts
When you have endometriosis, it may affect your ovaries, causing the development of cysts. Ovarian cysts manifest as a growth on the ovary that causes discomfort. These cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in or on your ovaries after ovulation. In some cases, you can experience ovarian torsion if you have these types of cysts.
4. Menstrual Irregularities
Endometriosis can also cause changes in your menstrual cycle that make it difficult to track your ovulation. You may experience spotting and cramping that can interfere with your daily activities. Further disrupting your ability to get pregnant, endometriosis can make intercourse uncomfortable. In some cases, you may even miss your period due to irregularities in hormone levels.
5. Heavy Bleeding
Your endometrial lining is shed during your period, and with endometriosis, you could notice excessive bleeding. This also occurs because extra tissue growth triggers heavy bleeding. Your period often lasts longer than usual, and you may have clots in your menstrual blood. With an early diagnosis, you reduce the spread of the condition to your uterus and fallopian tubes.
Contact a Reproductive Health Expert
If you experience excessively painful periods or are struggling to conceive, schedule an appointment with your infertility specialist for a proper diagnosis. Early intervention is beneficial in preventing further damage to your reproductive organs. Contact a reproductive health expert today to get assistance with the appropriate treatment and management of endometriosis.