How Endometriosis Can Impact Your Fertility

A common condition that impacts approximately 5 million American women is that of endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition that impacts the uterine lining. This lining, which is produced by the body each month for egg implantation, is shed during the monthly menstrual period. However, with endometriosis, women have endometrial tissue that travels outside of the fallopian tube and into the abdomen, sometimes attaching to other organs of the body. This overgrowth is often contributed to irritation and inflammation as the body has no way of shedding these tissues and blood out of the body. Most patients who have endometriosis experience pain and discomfort throughout the midsection due to this tissue overgrowth.

What are the signs of endometriosis?

The most common symptoms of endometriosis that present include:

• Painful sexual intercourse
• Abnormalities with bowel movements or urination
• Pain or discomfort in the midsection
• Increased fatigue
• Increase of bleeding between menstrual periods

However, it is noted that up to 20% of women who have endometriosis often exhibit no symptoms.

Does endometriosis impact my fertility?

Women who struggle with endometriosis will often ask Dr. Craig Ranch if their condition will impact their fertility and their ability to conceive a child. The short answer is maybe. Endometriosis can result in extensive irritation and inflammation. The inflammation of the fimbria, which is the part of the uterus that takes the fertilized egg and transports it to the fallopian tube, can cause excessive scarring an swelling that can keep the egg from reaching its destination. Additionally, endometriosis can cause an inhospitable environment for the sperm and/or eggs, making it more difficult for women to become pregnant.

Call Craig Ranch OB/GYN today!

If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis and are trying to start a family, or suspect that endometriosis may be present and impacting your fertility, a thorough and comprehensive examination may be in order with Dr. Craig Ranch. Call our McKinney, Texas area practice at (214) 544-6600 to request an appointment at our facility, conveniently located in Suite 100 at 7900 Henneman Way. We work directly with women to help them achieve better health and wellness, and also find treatments for infertility for those looking to start or expand their families.