Putting an End to Endometriosis

Targeted Treatment for Endometriosis Can Restore Fertility

For some women, endometriosis causes infertility; for others, it does not. Your fertility specialist considers endometriosis a stumbling block to leading a hormonally balanced and fertile life, and will want to address it as part of a comprehensive fertility workup.

While some doctors may recommend treating the symptoms of endometriosis, Dr. Mark Denker can obliterate it — with lasers! — to provide you with the best odds for getting pregnant.

Not every woman with endometriosis will need fertility treatment; but if you are struggling with infertility, Dr. Denker wants you to know the facts.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when the cells that make up the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) migrate and grow outside of the uterus. Endometrial growths occur over time, and these implants or scar tissue can form on the organs in the pelvic region.

What Are the Stages of Endometriosis?

Fertility specialists rate the progression of endometriosis in this order, based on where the endometriosis forms, how much it has spread, and how many pelvic adhesions are present:

• Stage I: Minimal
• Stage II: Mild
• Stage III: Moderate
• Stage IV: Severe

The stage of endometriosis does not always correspond with the severity of symptoms, which include pain, heavy periods, diarrhea or constipation. For some women with stage IV endometriosis, infertility is the first sign of a problem.

How Does Endometriosis Affect Fertility?

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine has found that endometriosis occurs in up to half of all women experiencing infertility. Endometriosis is thought to impede the reproductive process by interfering with the transfer of eggs, preventing the embryo from implanting in the uterine lining and/or disrupting ovulation.

The disease of endometriosis is often symptomless, and much more common than you would imagine. Do you suspect endometriosis as an underlying cause of infertility? Contact us at Palm Beach Fertility Center to discuss the symptoms and treatments for endometriosis.