How Will Endometriosis Affect My Pregnancy?
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to uterine lining grows outside of the organ. This abnormal growth can affect a woman's ability to become pregnant. The caring doctors of Los Angeles Reproductive Center treat this condition for patients at offices in Encino, and Bakersfield, CA. With proper treatment, women with endometriosis can achieve a better chance of growing their families. If you are experiencing difficulty becoming pregnant, or if you have been diagnosed with endometriosis, Drs. Nurit Winkler and Marc Kalan are here to help you.
A Closer Look
Endometriosis Symptoms and Risk Factors
The exact cause of endometriosis is still unknown. Women with endometriosis often experience pelvic pain, especially during menstrual periods. Although cramping during this time is common, patients with endometriosis describe their menstrual pain as being far worse.
Other symptoms may include:
- Pelvic pain for days before and after menstruating
- Pain during intercourse
- Pain during bowel movements
- Heavy menstrual bleeding during periods or between periods
- Bloating or nausea during menstrual periods
Known risk factors for this condition include:
- No previous births
- Starting period early in adolescence
- Early onset of menopause
- Short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days)
- Low body mass index (BMI)
- Reproductive tract abnormalities
The severity of pain you are suffering is not always related to the extent of the condition. Some patients experience mild pain while others may report severe pain. While pain is a sign of endometriosis, only a trained physician can properly diagnose the condition. Your diagnosis may include a pelvic exam, ultrasound, MRI, or laparoscopy.
During your exam at our Los Angeles medical facility, one of our doctors will determine if the source of your pain is due to endometriosis or another cause, such as ovarian cysts or pelvic inflammatory disease.
Due to the fact that endometriosis can negatively affect conception, we recommend that any women who experience one or more symptoms of this condition schedule an exam with our Los Angeles fertility clinic.
The trusted medical team at Los Angeles Reproductive Center is dedicated to helping our patients grow their families through the use of advanced technology, intensive training, and compassion.
Treatment Options for Endometriosis
Around one-third of women with this condition have difficulty conceiving. Women with endometriosis are also at a much higher risk of developing complications during pregnancy. Endometriosis can cause obstructions within female reproductive organs that prevent sperm and the egg from uniting. However, women with endometriosis can still conceive and carry a healthy pregnancy to term. Once one of our doctors has accurately diagnosed endometriosis as the cause of your discomfort, a personalized treatment plan can be created.
Depending on the nature and severity of your condition, one of our doctors may recommend:
- Pain medication
- Hormone therapy
- Conservative surgery
- Fertility treatment such as IVF
Treat Endometriosis with the Help of a Trusted Fertility Center
The trusted medical team at Los Angeles Reproductive Center is dedicated to helping our patients grow their families through the use of advanced technology, intensive training, and compassion. Our office offers multiple payment options and treatment packages. If you have questions about endometriosis or wish to schedule an appointment, please contact our office online or call (818) 946-8051.
