Endometriosis and Fertility

Endometriosis and Fertility

Endometriosis is a common gynaecological condition that affects up to 10% of women between the ages of 15 and 49. This chronic condition occurs when the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus begins to grow outside of it. It can lead to painful periods, pelvic pain, and infertility.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

The symptoms of endometriosis can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Painful periods
• Pelvic pain
• Pain during sex
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Infertility
• Other symptoms can include nausea, diarrhea, vaginal pain, constipation, and back pain

It is important to note that not all women with endometriosis experience infertility, but those who do may face significant challenges trying to conceive. Early diagnosis and intervention are vital to managing the condition and improving fertility outcomes.

Diagnosing Endometriosis

The diagnosis of endometriosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination by a fertility specialist.

During this evaluation, she may also perform imaging studies like an ultrasound or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Laparoscopic surgery is the gold standard for the diagnosis of endometriosis. In this procedure, a small incision is made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope is inserted to allow the doctor to visualize the inside of the pelvis.

Types of Endometriosis

There are several types of endometriosis based on their location and severity:

• Superficial Endometriosis: In this type the growth of endometrial tissue on the surface of organs within the pelvic cavity, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the outer lining of the uterus.
• Ovarian Endometriosis: This occurs when endometrial tissue forms cysts on the ovaries, known as endometriomas or chocolate cysts.
• Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis (DIE): This is a severe form where endometrial tissue penetrates deeply into the pelvic organs, such as the bowel, bladder, & the walls of the pelvic cavity.
• Rectovaginal Endometriosis: This is a type of DIE that affects the rectum & the vagina, often leading to pain during bowel movements & intercourse.
• Adenomyosis: Although not strictly endometriosis, it is related. Adenomyosis occurs when endometrial tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, causing the uterus to become enlarged & painful during menstruation.
• Extra-pelvic Endometriosis: In rare cases, endometriosis can be found outside the pelvic region, affecting areas such as the lungs, diaphragm, and even the brain.

It is important to note that the symptoms & severity of endometriosis can vary widely between individuals, and a proper diagnosis is essential for effective management and treatment.

Stages of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is classified into four stages based on the extent, location, and depth of endometrial tissue growth. This staging system is known as the revised classification of endometriosis.

The stages are as follows:

• Stage I (Minimal): In this stage, there are isolated small lesions or superficial implants on the pelvic lining or ovaries. There may be minimal adhesions (bands of scar tissue) in the pelvic area.
• Stage II (Mild): This stage involves slightly deeper implants and more extensive adhesions. The implants may also be present on the fallopian tubes and the back of the uterus (uterosacral ligaments).
• Stage III (Moderate): In Stage III, the endometriosis implants are more widespread and may have formed cysts on one or both ovaries. The adhesions are usually more significant, potentially causing the pelvic organs to stick together.
• Stage IV (Severe): This is the most advanced stage of endometriosis. In Stage IV, there are extensive and deep implants throughout the pelvic region, and adhesions are extensive, binding multiple organs together. The fallopian tubes may be severely affected, and there might be large endometriomas on one or both ovaries.

It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms may not necessarily correlate with the stage of endometriosis. Some individuals with mild endometriosis may experience severe pain, while others with severe endometriosis may have minimal symptoms. 

The stage of endometriosis can help infertility specialists in planning treatment approaches, but the final decision on management will be based on your specific symptoms, fertility goals, and overall health.

Treatment of Endometriosis

The treatment of endometriosis depends on the severity of symptoms, the extent of the condition, and the individual’s reproductive goals.

Some common treatment approaches include:

• Hormonal therapy to help suppress the growth of endometrial tissue
• Surgery to remove endometrial tissue, cysts or adhesions
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) or Assisted Hatching
• Counselling for emotional support

Dr. Puranik places an emphasis on integrated care that addresses not just the physical manifestations of endometriosis, but also the emotional impact it can have on patients and their families.

Endometriosis and IVF

In cases of Endometriosis, where conception becomes a challenge due to the condition’s impact on fertility, In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) emerges as a promising solution. IVF can offer hope to patients struggling with Endometriosis by bypassing the obstacles posed by the disease.

As an accomplished IVF specialist, Dr. Supriya Puranik plays a pivotal role in guiding patients through this journey. IVF involves the retrieval of eggs from the ovaries, fertilising them with sperm in a controlled environment, and transferring resulting embryos into the uterus.

This process circumvents potential barriers caused by Endometriosis, such as blocked fallopian tubes or compromised egg quality. Dr. Supriya Puranik’s expertise ensures that patients receive tailored protocols, precise monitoring, and compassionate care, optimising the chances of successful embryo implantation and pregnancy.

With IVF under the guidance of Dr. Supriya Puranik, patients with Endometriosis can embrace a hopeful path towards achieving their dream of parenthood.

Endometriosis Treatments Available at Dr. Supriya Puranik’s Clinic

Dr. Supriya Puranik, endometriosis specialist in pune offers a personalised approach to endometriosis treatment that is evidence-based, patient-centred, and focused on improving fertility outcomes.

We offer following treatments:

• Endometrial Scratching: Endometrial scratching (also known as endometrial injury) is a procedure that involves deliberately wounding the inner lining of the uterus and introducing a foreign body or stimulus to induce increased fertility and better implantation rates. What are some Benefits Of Endometrial Scratching?
• Endometrial Rejuvenation: Endometrial Rejuvenation is an integrated approach to assess and treat underlying conditions contributing to infertility, such as hormonal imbalances, immune system abnormalities or uterine fibroids. This treatment program does not focus solely on any one condition but instead looks at each individual’s health profile as a whole. Chances Of Success Through Endometrial Rejuvenation
• Endometrial PRP: Endometrial PRP is a cutting-edge fertility treatment offered by renowned gynaecologist and infertility specialist Dr. Supriya Puranik. This procedure helps to regenerate & revitalise the endometrium, making it more receptive to the implantation of embryos.
  When is Endometrial PRP recommended?
• Endometrial Stell Injection: Endometrial Stell Injection, is an advanced fertility treatment offered by renowned IVF specialist and gynaecologist Dr Supriya Puranik. This procedure involves introducing special cells called stell into the uterus to help improve its health and receptivity, thus increasing the chances of successful conception. Read More
• Endometrial ACRS: Endometrial ACRS is a cutting-edge technique that helps create a receptive endometrial lining for successful embryo implantation. Endometrial ACRS is ideal for women who have been trying to conceive but have faced difficulty due to endometrial issues.
• Endometriosis Surgery: Endometriosis surgery is a procedure that removes the problematic tissue from the outside of the uterus. Read in detail – Endometriosis Surgery

Endometriosis surgery cost in Pune

The cost of endometriosis surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery, where it is performed and by whom, and whether or not you have insurance.

The cost of endometriosis surgery in Pune ranges from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2,00,000. The cost can vary based on the type of surgery, the length of hospital stay, and other medical expenses.

Consult with your healthcare provider, insurance company or medical facilities to learn how much surgery for endometriosis will cost in your specific situation.

You can consult endometriosis specialist Dr. Supriya Puranik to learn more about the cost of endometriosis surgery and how to manage it.

Get in Touch:

If you are experiencing symptoms of endometriosis and are concerned about your fertility, Dr. Supriya Puranik can help.

She is a respected fertility specialist in Pune with extensive experience diagnosing and treating endometriosis. Her practice provides evidence-based treatments in a compassionate, patient-centred environment. Contact us to schedule a consultation at our infertility treatment centre in Pune.

About Doctor

Dr. Supriya Puranik

Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist

Often known as the last glimmer of hope for people who have lost all hope for conceiving a child, Dr. Supriya Puranik is a leading gynaecologist, high-risk obstetrician and Head of IVF & Gynaecology department at Sahyadri Hospitals Momstory in Shivajinagar, Pune.

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