Can I Get Pregnant with Endometriosis?

endometriosis

Can I Get Pregnant with Endometriosis?

It’s true that endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility in the United States. However, most women with endometriosis still get pregnant. According to endometriosis.org, “…60% to 70% of women with endometriosis are considered fertile,” and more than half of those women get pregnant and enjoy a full-term pregnancy without fertility assistance.

You Can Still Get Pregnant with Endometriosis

There’s a very good chance you will be able to get pregnant just fine. In fact, many women never even know they have endometriosis because they’re asymptomatic or symptoms are so mild, they never realize their discomfort or heavier bleeding/spotting are abnormal.

Here are things to think about if you have endometriosis and want to get pregnant:

 

Age matters even more

There is no doubt that age matters for women when it comes to good egg-quality, quicker conceptions and healthier pregnancies. When you have endometriosis, age matters even more. In general, it is believed that the likelihood of fertility problems increases with the severity of the disease and, as in women without endometriosis, with age.

If you have endometriosis, do consider getting pregnant when your fertility window is still wide open. Otherwise, you may require assistance.

Talk to your doctor about treatment options

Scarring is a real risk with this disease, which is where treatment options come into play. While hormonal treatments, including birth control pills, don’t really “treat” endometriosis but – rather – stave off its most severe symptoms, they still drastically diminish the amount of endometrium-like materials that can lead to long-term scarring.

Severe cases, like those with residual scarring, may be worth surgical treatment, which is covered by insurance and far more affordable then most fertility treatment options.

Lifestyle choices reduce inflammation and enhance fertility chances

Your diet, exercise and lifestyle choices can have a big impact on fertility – and endometriosis, in particular.

A number of studies demonstrate a correlation between women with more severe symptoms and higher-intakes of red meat, trans-fats, caffeine/alcohol, with lower-intake of vegetables.

Focusing on diets that optimize intake of fresh veggies, fruits, whole grains and lean meat, and that limit intake of processed foods and simple carbohydrates, is a smart move for any woman planning to get pregnant.

Find an OB you love

We also recommend women with potential infertility factors (those with PCOS, diabetes, etc.) find an OB/GYN who specializes in your condition and whom you love. Together, you’ll be able to partner in your short- and long-term care plan, particularly when it comes to getting pregnant. If you’re struggling to pregnant, it’s time to find the right fertility specialist as soon as possible.

Are you concerned endometriosis is keeping you from conceiving? Schedule a consultation with us here at the Fertility Center of Dallas.



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