The inflammation caused by endometriosis negatively affects fertility. It leads to inflammation of the fimbriae, which capture the egg and transport it to the fallopian tube, resulting in swelling and scarring that prevent the egg from reaching its natural destination. The inflammation associated with endometriosis causes adhesions between pelvic organs, which disrupts the basic function of the ovaries and fallopian tubes, leading to blocked fallopian tubes and covering of the ovaries with adhesions. This negatively impacts ovulation, causing delayed pregnancy, recurrent miscarriages, and premature births.
Impact of Inflammatory Substances on Fertilization
Endometriosis releases inflammatory substances known as cytokines, which paralyze the egg and sperm within the female reproductive system, preventing fertilization from occurring. This negative effect on fertilization makes it challenging to achieve pregnancy naturally and may prompt some cases to resort to assisted reproductive techniques, such as IVF.
Pelvic Adhesions and Their Effect on the Reproductive System
As endometriosis progresses, inflammation can lead to the formation of adhesions between pelvic organs, affecting their natural function. Reproductive organs like the ovaries and fallopian tubes become attached, leading to blocked tubes, making it difficult for eggs to reach their destination. These adhesions also impact ovulation, significantly reducing the chances of fertilization and potentially causing recurrent miscarriages.
Ovarian Cysts and Their Impact on Fertility
Endometriosis can cause the formation of cysts on one or both ovaries, which can be detected through pelvic or transvaginal ultrasound. These cysts cause persistent pain in the pelvic area and lead to a reduction in ovarian reserve, lowering the chance of producing healthy eggs and adding further challenges to conception.
Note
During pregnancy, endometriosis symptoms and activity typically decrease due to the influence of pregnancy and breastfeeding hormones, but this is not a permanent cure for the condition.
Endometriosis can be diagnosed and treated through laparoscopy to remove the endometrial tissue, release adhesions, clear the fallopian tubes, and remove cysts from the ovaries while preserving ovarian reserve.