Endometriosis is the growth of tissue that is similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) outside the uterus. Just like normal endometrial tissue, this misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes. Endometriosis may manifest in ovaries, fallopian tubes, and tissues lining the pelvis. Here’s how endometriosis affects reproductive health:
Fertility Challenges
The severity of endometriosis-related infertility varies from one woman to another, depending on the location and stage of the lesion. The adhesions may block fallopian tubes and prevent the egg and sperm from meeting naturally. Over time, ovarian endometriomas may damage the healthy follicular tissue and gradually diminish ovarian reserve. Advanced reproductive technologies like IVF offer a solution for many women experiencing endometriosis-related infertility. Women with mild to moderate disease can improve reproductive health with early diagnosis and treatment, which betters fertility outcomes.
Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)
Endometrial implants may cause cyclical bleeding, which could result in inflammation and irritation of pelvic structures around them. The increased sensitivity and pain signals from these nerves growing around endometriosis lesions are frequently significant. As the disease progresses through its stages, pain patterns tend to get worse progressively. Women can have different types of pain, such as cramping, stabbing, burning, or dullness. Early intervention with proper pain management can help preserve daily function and improve quality of life.
Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia)
In cases where endometriosis involves uterosacral ligaments, rectovaginal septum, or Douglas pouch, deep dyspareunia occurs. Scarring or nodules can pull on tissues during intercourse or movement because of lesions. The pattern of pain often changes during the menstrual cycle, becoming worse during or before periods. Symptoms can be managed by having sex in different positions or by having intercourse during less painful parts of the cycle.
Complications During Pregnancy
Altered immune responses and poor placental development are ways in which endometriosis might lead to increased risk. When endometriosis occurs on the anterior uterine wall or bladder, there is a higher chance of placenta previa occurring. Endometriosis lesions may rupture due to pregnancy-induced changes. Sometimes, hormonal changes following pregnancy can change the progression or symptom pattern of the disease after delivery. Diagnosis of endometriosis helps those looking to become pregnant make more informed decisions. Treating this condition through various means, such as hormone therapy and surgery, aims to minimize the impact of this condition on pregnancy.
Ovarian Cyst Formation
Endometriomas are formed when endometrial tissue invades the ovary and causes blood-filled cysts to form. They are distinctive dark brown cysts, which may be tiny lesions or large masses greater than ten centimeters. Cysts often grow into other structures within the pelvis, forming a disorganized mass that is difficult to identify anatomically. In women with endometriomas, the levels of anti-Müllerian hormone generally decrease, which is associated with diminished ovarian reserve. Doctors can order tests that identify these types of ovarian cysts and then make a treatment plan.
Pelvic Organ Dysfunction
With endometriosis impacting the pelvis, organs may become fixed together with fibrotic adhesions, which prevent normal movement and create chronic tension. Bowel endometriosis most often affects the rectosigmoid colon and causes painful bowel movements and changes in elimination patterns. Chronic pelvic pain due to infiltration of the uterosacral ligaments is worsened by certain movements or positions. The endometriosis adhesion can slowly pull the uterus back into retroversion, causing even more pain and dysfunction. Compression of nerves from endometriosis nodules causes radiating pain patterns that are not limited to the pelvis. Treatment approaches are individualized depending on symptoms, fertility desires, and the extent of the disease.
Boost Reproductive Health
Multiple complex and interconnected biological mechanisms disrupt reproductive health as a result of endometriosis. Early diagnosis is difficult because the symptoms overlap with other gynecological conditions. As part of managing this condition, the psychological impacts should also be addressed. Contact a health facility today to learn more about diagnosing and managing the impact of endometriosis.
