Fertility & Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a disease that occurs in 15-20% of all women, and in up to 50% of women who have trouble conceiving.  It is most commonly diagnosed in women aged 25-40 although symptoms usually begin in the teen years and it is often initially misdiagnosed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. 

So, what is Endometriosis?  Endometriosis is when tissue (cells), similar to that found in the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is found outside the uterus in places such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and bowel.  These cells respond to oestrogen (just like the endometrium in the uterus) which means they can become inflamed and bleed resulting in scarring.  This can cause problems if you are trying to conceive.

What’s the cause?  The cause is unknown in spite of many theories so research continues.  There is no cure, but endometriosis can be treated and managed. 

What are the symptoms?  Symptoms can include: painful periods, pain with ovulation, painful intercourse, pain with bowel movements, constipation, diarrhoea, difficulty conceiving, abdominal pain, lower back pain, pain before or with urination, frequent urination, sudden need to urinate, pre-menstrual symptoms, mood fluctuations and depression, tiredness fatigue, exhaustion, low energy, abnormal menstrual bleeding. 

Is it painfuf?  The amount of pain is not always related to the extent of the disease.  Some girls and women with mild endometriosis can suffer severe symptoms while others may have advanced progression of the disease but with few or no symptoms.

How is it treated?  Endometriosis treatment can involve surgical intervention (removing or releasing scar tissue), medication to reduce pain and inflammation, hormonal treatment to reduce the growth of endometrial tissue (Progestins, Mirena and the oral contraceptive pill) and management through diet and lifestyle changes, regular exercise, the reduction of stress and incorporating complementary therapies. 

 Question - I have Endometriosis and want to conceive but it just isn’t happening.  How can Natural Fertility NZ help me?

• There are many myths and misconceptions about the menstrual cycle and fertility.  Natural Fertility NZ Educators are highly trained health professionals who will help you differentiate fact from fiction.
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  Endometriosis can compromise fertility in some women.  By charting your menstrual cycle we can ascertain what is happening with your fertility. 
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  Some women with endometriosis find intercourse painful and this can be frustrating when trying to conceive as the frequency of intercourse may be reduced.  By learning about the most fertile time in your cycle, intercourse can be timed to maximize your chances of conceiving.
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  Recording your menstrual cycle along with endometriosis symptoms over several months provides a valuable history if a referral to a fertility specialist or gynaecologist is required.
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  Learning about your menstrual cycle and fertility is an empowering process.
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  Linking specific endometriosis symptoms to different phases of the menstrual cycle can be helpful in planning self care and the management of symptoms.

Want to find out more about Endometriosis?
Visit Endometriosis New Zealand  the Registered Charity formed to provide information, education, support and foster research on http://www.nzendo.co.nz or http://www.me.school.nz  the website specifically for girls and young women, parents and teachers to understand the condition, learn about treatment options and best practice care