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Female Infertility - Fertility Information - What is Infertility?

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is diagnosed by laparoscopy. It is when cells from the endometrium (lining of the uterus) are found outside the uterus itself. Some of the areas they are found are the fallopian tubes, the ovaries and the bladder. The exact reason for this is still debated. Some argue that it occurs as a result of the endometrium cells moving up through the fallopian tubes and the cells then locating outside the uterus in the abdominal cavity. Others believe that it is a genetic, inherited disease. The extent of the areas affected varies enormously hence the reason for classification ranging from Grade 1-4 (Grade 4 being extensive area of the pelvis affected by endometriosis).

Some symptoms of endometriosis are:

• Abnormal menstrual bleeding
• Pain during/after sexual intercourse
• Dysmenorrhea-Painful periods
• Menorrhagia- Heavy periods
• Severe pelvic pain

The endometrotic cells respond in the same way as the endometruim to hormonal changes in the body. The uterine lining increases as the body prepares for pregnancy. If fertilization has not occurred the lining is shed as a menstrual bleed. The endometriotic cells also swell and then bleed. As the cells are located outside the uterus the bleed occurs in the pelvis causing pain and potential scar tissue/ adhesions which can then cause complications in conceiving. In addition endomeritic cysts can also form. These can be identified by an ultra sound scan or a laparoscopy. Your doctor may advise antibiotic treatment or a laparoscopy to drain/ remove the cyst.

If infertility is due to Endometriosis then the couple may be offered IVF treatment to help to conceive. Depending on the severity of the Endometriosis anti- biotic treatment may be advisable at the egg collection to prevent pelvic infection.

This should be taken under advice from the clinic or Doctor that is treating the couple.

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