How to Get Pregnant With Endometriosis

Endometriosis results when the tissue that lines the uterus bleeds outside the uterus during menstrual periods. Eventually, the tissue builds up, causing ovarian cysts, blocked fallopian tubes or adhesions in the abdominal cavity. Endometriosis causes fertility problems, but it's possible to get pregnant with the condition.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Make sure you have endometriosis and know the degree to which it can affect getting pregnant. Your doctor can best determine this with a laparoscopy, a small incision through which a tube is inserted that the doctor can see through. Don't delay pregnancy if you are diagnosed with endometriosis. Fertility decreases with each passing month since the condition causes continued tissue build-up outside the uterus.
2. Discuss getting pregnant with your doctor based on a fertility assessment. Your doctor can outline the options: drugs, surgery or just keep trying. Pregnancy doesn't cure endometriosis. Women who can get pregnant with the condition may have fertility issues after the first child is born. It's important to discuss strategies with your doctor such as having the next child as quickly as possible.
3. Set a time frame for getting pregnant when using drug therapy. The drugs involved prevent ovulation and periods, so your fertility is highest when you finish the drug therapy. Note that birth control pills can control endometriosis, but monitor your condition with your doctor if you're delaying pregnancy.
4. Consider surgery for the more severe cases. In many cases doctors can remove the tissue blocking ovaries and fallopian tubes in many cases.
5. Ask about laser ablation and vaporization for the areas affecting fertility. This may not be an option, depending on the severity of the condition, but it's less invasive that other forms of surgery.