March is Endometriosis Awareness Month.
Dr. Omar from Beacon CARE Fertility answers the Top 7 most common questions.
Celebrities such as Mandy Moore, Chrissy Teigen and Emma Roberts have recently opened up about their struggles with Endometriosis and its impact on their fertility.
But what is it and can you still get pregnant having the condition?
Dr. Omar from Beacon CARE Fertility answers the 7 most common questions regarding Endometriosis.
- What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a common condition where pieces of tissue from the inner lining of the uterus become implanted elsewhere outside of the womb.
- Does endometriosis cause infertility:
Endometriosis may cause infertility, but a diagnosis doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t be able to have children.
However, depending on the severity of the condition, you may experience difficulty getting pregnant.
- How can endometriosis affect my fertility?:
Endometriosis can affect the fallopian tubes, fertilisation of the egg, implantation of the embryo and pregnancy chances.
- What are the symptoms?
Women with Endometriosis, may experience (in part) chronic back pain, heavy periods, fatigue, depression and difficulty getting pregnant.
- Is it easy to diagnose?
Diagnosing Endometriosis can sometimes be difficult as the symptoms can vary significantly and are shared by other conditions.
Dr. Omar recommends contacting your GP for advice if you feel you are suffering from many of these symptoms.
6. How is it treated?
The treatments your GP may recommend include:
- Painkillers
- Hormone medicines and contraceptives
- Surgery – to remove parts of the endometriosis tissue
- An operation to remove parts of the organs affected – such as the womb
Your gynaecologist will be able to discuss the benefits and risks of each of the treatments available.
- Do you have Fertility advise to women with Endometriosis?
A woman’s Ovarian Reserve can be affected by endometriosis.
So, in addition to treating the condition, egg freezing also may be advised, explains Dr. Omar.
