Endometriosis is a medical condition that affects a woman’s reproductive system. It is a condition where the tissue that is supposed to grow inside the womb starts to grow outside it.
This usually affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissues around the uterus. Endometriosis can cause painful periods, fertility issues, and other complications.
According to research, endometriosis could be a major cause of infertility and miscarriage. Although endometriosis can make becoming pregnant more difficult, many women with this condition still have successful pregnancies.
However, women with endometriosis do have an increased risk of experiencing a failed pregnancy compared to women who do not have the condition.
What Causes Endometriosis?
The cause of endometriosis is still unknown, but there are a few theories. One theory suggests that during menstruation, some of the menstrual tissue backs up into the fallopian tubes, implants in the pelvis, and starts to grow.
It is also believed that genetics, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune disorders may contribute to endometriosis.
Effects of Endometriosis on Pregnancy
Many women with endometriosis are able to conceive naturally without any trouble. However, the chances of conception are lower in women with endometriosis due to damage to the ovaries or fallopian tubes.
Endometriosis can cause scarring, inflammation, and lesions that can make it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg. This can reduce the chances of fertilization and implantation, leading to infertility.
Women with endometriosis who do conceive have an increased risk of experiencing complications during pregnancy. Women with endometriosis are at a higher risk of experiencing an ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, preterm labor, and placenta previa.
Endometriosis can also cause problems with the growth of the fetus, leading to low birth weight and premature birth.
Endometriosis and Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy is a condition where a fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterus. Women with endometriosis are at a higher risk of experiencing an ectopic pregnancy.
The scarring and lesions that endometriosis causes could lead to the fertilized egg implanting in the wrong place. This can be a life-threatening condition for the mother if not treated early.
Endometriosis and Miscarriage
According to studies, women with endometriosis are at a higher risk of experiencing a miscarriage. Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. The exact reason why endometriosis increases the risk of miscarriage is unknown.
However, some researchers believe that endometriosis can cause the immune system to attack the fetus, leading to a miscarriage.
Endometriosis and Preterm Labor
Preterm labor is the onset of labor before the 37th week of pregnancy. Women with endometriosis are at a higher risk of experiencing preterm labor. The scarring and inflammation caused by endometriosis could trigger early contractions and labor.
Preterm labor increases the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.
Endometriosis and Placenta Previa
Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers the cervical opening, making it difficult for the baby to be born. Women with endometriosis are at a higher risk of experiencing placenta previa.
The scarring and lesions caused by endometriosis can cause the placenta to implant abnormally, leading to placenta previa. Placenta previa may require a cesarean section delivery and can be life-threatening if not treated early.
Treatment for Endometriosis during Pregnancy
Endometriosis is usually treated with hormone therapy, surgery, or both. However, these treatments are not recommended during pregnancy. Women who know they have endometriosis should inform their obstetrician.
The obstetrician should monitor the pregnancy closely and treat any complications that may arise due to endometriosis.
Conclusion
Endometriosis is a common medical condition that affects women of reproductive age. It can cause infertility issues, painful periods, and other complications.
Women with endometriosis have an increased risk of experiencing complications during pregnancy, including miscarriage, placenta previa, preterm labor, and ectopic pregnancy. Women with endometriosis who plan to conceive should seek medical advice from their obstetrician to monitor and manage any complications that may arise.