This is a common condition where the endometrial tissue that usually lines the womb grows outside the womb. As well as causing pain and greatly affecting quality of life, endometriosis can lead to fertility problems in up to half of sufferers.
This is a common condition where the endometrial tissue that usually lines the womb grows outside the womb. As well as causing pain and greatly affecting quality of life, endometriosis can lead to fertility problems in up to half of sufferers.
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the endometrium (the tissue that forms the lining of the uterus) is found growing outside the uterus, most commonly in the female pelvis. This causes a chronic inflammatory response as scar tissue can form in the pelvis and other areas of the body. It can also lead to a build-up of fibrous tissues between nearby reproductive organs, causing them to ‘stick’ together.
Endometriosis is common and affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age in the UK.
Endometriosis can present with many symptoms with the commonest being pain and discomfort. Endometriosis classically causes severe period pains and pain with intercourse and it can cause fertility issues. There are currently no cures for endometriosis, but treatments are available to help manage symptoms.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can have a significant impact on quality of life.
Symptoms can include:
There is no known cause of endometriosis, but there are a few theories as to what might cause it, including:
Retrograde menstruation: Endometrial tissue goes into the fallopian tubes and into the pelvis instead of exiting the body through the cervix during a woman’s period.
Cellular metaplasia: When cells change from one form to another. Cells outside the endometrium change into endometrial-like cells.
Stem cell theory: Stem cells in the uterus may be able to migrate outside of the uterus via blood and the lymphatic system
There is also a possible genetic predisposition as it can impact some families more than others.
Although there is no definitive cause of endometriosis – research has highlighted some things that put you at higher risk of developing the condition:
Women with endometriosis can still get pregnant and have a successful pregnancy.
A laparoscopy procedure can be used to evaluate all pelvic surfaces for endometriosis and adhesions. A dye will be used to check if there are any blockages in the fallopian tubes, ensuring that they are open.
If endometriosis is present, there are different options for removing any scar tissue, including diathermy treatment and surgical excision.
Endometriosis and endometrioma’s have been found to be associated with a lower ovarian reserve which can worsen over time, potentially reducing the number of eggs available. Freezing eggs is a good option for younger patients. Aria Fertility offers fertility preservation and the best in wrap-around IVF support to help women become pregnant.
It is essential to confirm a diagnosis of endometriosis from an expert if you are experiencing any symptoms. Consultant gynaecologist Miss Amanda Tozer at Aria Fertility has over 20 years’ experience helping couples with fertility issues, and is also an expert in general gynaecology and women’s health.
Miss Tozer has a comprehensive knowledge of menstrual disorders, including endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome and fibroids. She will carry out a medical history and will investigate symptoms with a physical examination and pelvic ultrasound.
She can advise on a range of tailored treatment options, including minimally invasive gynaecological surgery to remove endometriosis lesions, adhesions, and scar tissue and will advise on appropriate management to optimise fertility and pain management as necessary.
Support.
Fertility treatments can be highly stressful and additional support is required to help you when you need it the most. Counselling is always available, however you may like to speak to one of our fertility coaches or even reach out to someone going through the same thing as you.
Our highly experienced team here at Aria Fertility will listen, support and guide you to having the family you always dreamed of.
Whether you’ve been trying unsuccessfully for a while; had children before but this time it hasn’t been so easy; or you just want a chat about it with someone who can listen and understand; rest assured, you are not in this alone.
Convenience.
Trying to balance daily routines with your fertility treatment can be exceptionally tough. At Aria, we want your fertility journey to be as convenient as it could possibly be.
Ensuring your fertility treatment fits in with your own schedule can make the process a lot less stressful. Many of our initial appointments can be performed virtually or made available during extended hours. You can make regular contact with the team at Aria either by virtual appointment, over the telephone or alternatively by email, allowing you the opportunity to blend your treatment with daily life.
When you do need to visit Aria for an appointment we are conveniently located on Welbeck Way in Marylebone, a short walk from either Bond Street or Oxford Circus underground stations.
If you would like to learn more about your own fertility journey contact us to arrange a face-to-face, telephone or video-appointment with one of our consultants.
You can do this by filling in the contact form below or by giving one of our friendly team a call on +44 (0) 203 263 6025 or emailing us at admin@ariafertility.co.uk.
We really look forward to getting to know you.
Mon – Fri: 9am – 5pm
8 Welbeck Way London W1G 9YL
