When preparing for pregnancy, every prospective mother holds a deep sense of anticipation for the future new life. However, the unexpected arrival of endometriosis can bring worry and anxiety. Concerns about the ability to conceive and the potential impact of the condition on fertility are common sources of psychological stress for patients.

Endometriosis, a condition affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide, can cause symptoms such as menstrual pain and discomfort during intercourse. More significantly, it can pose challenges on the journey to conception. So, how does endometriosis affect pregnancy, and what steps should be taken if diagnosed with this condition while trying to conceive?

What is the impact of endometriosis on pregnancy?

1. Ovarian Reserve

The formation of endometriotic cysts can lead to an inflammatory response, causing fibrosis of the surrounding normal ovarian cortical tissue. This fibrosis and oxidative stress can result in follicular depletion, diminishing the quality of primordial follicles and leading to premature development and early follicular atresia.

2. Oocyte Quality

Increased levels of inflammatory cytokines in the peritoneal fluid of endometriosis patients may disrupt the pelvic immune microenvironment, adversely affecting oocyte development. Additionally, the apoptosis rate of ovarian granulosa cells is higher in these patients, weakening the nutritional support for the oocytes and reducing their quality and maturity. Lower vascular endothelial growth factor expression in follicular granulosa cells may also impair oocyte development and maturation.

3. Fallopian Tube Function

Inflammation and edema of endometriotic lesions can damage the mucosal folds of the fallopian tubes, stimulating fibrous tissue proliferation. This can lead to tubal adhesions, distortion, obstruction, and abnormal peristalsis, impairing the fallopian tubes' ability to pick up the ovum and transport the egg.

4. Endometrial Receptivity

The inflammatory response caused by ectopic endometrial tissue in the peritoneal cavity may alter the immune microenvironment of the endometrium, interfering with the endometrial cells' responsiveness to estrogen and progesterone. This can shorten or delay the implantation window, reducing the endometrium's receptivity to the embryo.

What to Do When Diagnosed with Endometriosis While Trying to Conceive?

1. Seek Professional Medical Advice

First and foremost, it is crucial to seek professional medical advice promptly. A gynecologist can evaluate your condition and create a tailored treatment plan based on your circumstances. The doctor may recommend comprehensive diagnostic tests to determine the severity and extent of endometriosis.

2. Understand Treatment Options

There are various treatment options for endometriosis, including medication, surgery, and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Patients can choose the most suitable treatment depending on their situation and the doctor’s recommendations. Medication is often used to alleviate pain and manage the condition, while surgical treatment can remove endometrial tissue and restore fertility.

3. Focus on Overall Health

Maintaining a good lifestyle and dietary habits during treatment can enhance your immune system and resistance. Moderate exercise, a balanced diet, and regular check-ups can help keep your body healthy.

4. Maintain Psychological Well-being

Endometriosis can impact mental health, so it’s essential not to overlook psychological well-being. Sharing feelings with family and friends, seeking psychological counseling, or joining support groups can help alleviate emotional stress.

Discovering endometriosis while preparing for pregnancy may bring you distress and anxiety. However, please remember that taking prompt action and seeking help from a professional doctor are the first steps to resolving the issue. To avoid potential mishaps, patients can take the traditional Chinese medicine formula Fuyan Pill without side effects. After completely curing this condition with the pill, then consider preparing for pregnancy again to increase the likelihood of success.

Recommended Readings:

Can You Still Be a Mom With Infertility In Advanced Age Combined With Severe Endometriosis?

How to Improve Pregnancy Rate in Endometriosis Patients through IVF?

There are Normal Ovulation but No Conception? Why?