Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a common cause of female infertility
Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age. It causes tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) to form outside the uterus. Some of the place it form include in and on ovaries, fallopian tubes, the peritoneal lining of the pelvis, the bowel, bladder and other organs.
Dr. Mark Rispler and Dr. Joshua J. Berger investigate this condition as a possible cause for female infertility by initially inquiring about pelvic pain and menstrual cycle patterns. Unfortunately, endometriosis is often symptomless, and the first sign of trouble is the inability to get pregnant.
The symptoms of this condition
The classic symptoms of this condition include:
- Pelvic pain (this can result in cramping during the follicular phase, first two weeks, of your menstrual cycle)
- Painful intercourse
- Painful bowel movements
- Urinary pain
- Infertility
Your doctor may suspect endometriosis after hearing your family history and description of symptoms. A physical exam or sonogram may also provide further evidence of this problem.
The causes of endometriosis
The disease of endometriosis is benign but usually progressive. In advanced stages it can cause severe scarring of the ovaries and/or tubes, which can result in infertility. Even milder forms of the disease may lead to infertility. The cause of endometriosis is not known with certainty, but several mechanisms are involved.
Immunological causes. Some scientists believe that the body’s exaggerated immune response to the presence of endometrial cells outside the uterus classify this issue as an autoimmune disease.
Retrograde menstruation. When a menstrual period flows backward into the pelvic cavity rather than forward through the vagina, it is called retrograde menstruation. Retrograde menstruation happens in nearly all women, but only causes this condition in some cases.
Our team specializes in disease and disorders of the female reproductive tract and endocrine system, and can offer your best chance at overcoming infertility caused by endometriosis.
Contact Innovative Fertility Center to learn more about effective treatment options for endometriosis and other causes of female infertility.
Ectopic Pregnancy
Tubal Factor Infertility be caused by Scar Tissue in the Tubes or Damage from an Ectopic Pregnancy
Tubal factor infertility is present in about a quarter of infertility cases. Tubal damage can include scar tissue within the fallopian tubes or completely blocked fallopian tubes as a result of birth defect, surgery or injury from an ectopic pregnancy. Tubal damage can also be caused by pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or pelvic endometriosis.
Uterine Abnormalities
Uterine abnormalities commonly referred to as a tilted uterus, double or abnormally formed uterus can be responsible for a quarter of recurrent miscarriages.
Environmental Factors
Repeated or prolonged exposure to certain environmental toxins can reduce sperm count. Environmental exposure can include pesticides, herbicides, insecticides can all alter the hormones required for optimal sperm production.
