Endometriosis and pregnancy – Does the disease exclude pregnancy?

It is estimated that up to 15% of menstruating women suffer from endometriosis. It is the cause of many complaints, one of which can be infertility, meaning unsuccessful attempts to get pregnant. However, it is important to know that pregnancy is not impossible despite endometriosis. Quick treatment is necessary, however.

Endometriosis is a disease characterized by the presence of the uterine lining in other organs – in the cervix, vagina, bladder, or abdominal cavity (the most common case). The causes are not yet fully understood. One theory suggests that the disease is caused by so-called retrograde menstruation, where the uterine lining flows backward through the fallopian tubes. Endometriosis develops slowly and may cause no symptoms for many years. The most common complaints that occur are: painful menstruation, pain during intercourse, and cycle disturbances. Many women only consult a doctor when they are unable to achieve a pregnancy.

Endometriosis and the chance of pregnancy

For many women diagnosed with endometriosis, the question of “endometriosis and pregnancy” is important. Unfortunately, the disease is one of the causes of reduced fertility. Difficulties in conceiving arise from various mechanisms:

• Reduced egg quality
• Hormonal disorders (hormones produced by the ovaries)
• Difficulty in implanting the egg in the uterus
• Adhesions, nodules, and cysts

Nevertheless, pregnancy is very much possible with endometriosis. Achieving it is not easy and often requires couples to begin therapy at a fertility clinic. The sooner treatment begins, the higher the chance of having a child.

How can one get pregnant with endometriosis?

An important question is how to get pregnant with endometriosis. A woman diagnosed with the disease or who is having difficulty getting pregnant should visit a fertility clinic with her partner. There, an accurate diagnosis is made (the tests also include the man). Based on the results, the doctor selects the optimal form of therapy. Several options exist. Each couple’s treatment is individually tailored.

Pregnancy with endometriosis can be achieved using assisted reproduction techniques. Couples are often offered in vitro fertilization (IVF). If the reproductive cells are of lower quality, the doctor may suggest using sperm donation.

In some women, measures are taken aimed at achieving a natural pregnancy with endometriosis. Initially, medications are recommended to alleviate symptoms, followed by ovulation stimulation. It is important for the woman to take care of herself during this time, preparing her body through healthy nutrition, physical activity, giving up bad habits, and learning stress management techniques.

Can endometriosis endanger a pregnancy?

Women who have achieved pregnancy with endometriosis, either naturally or with the help of IVF, should be aware that they belong to a higher-risk group for complications. The most common complications are: ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, bleeding, or premature birth. For this reason, the expectant mother must be under strict medical supervision, and the pregnancy must be regularly monitored.

In many women, relief from endometriosis is observed during pregnancy. This is due to the increase in progesterone levels and the absence of monthly menstruation. However, it must be noted that the disease does not disappear completely. After childbirth, the symptoms of endometriosis return and may worsen again.