If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis and infertility, you are not alone. It is estimated that nearly 5 million women in the United States suffer from endometriosis and that 20-40% of women with infertility have endometriosis. So what exactly is it, you ask?
In short, endometriosis is a condition that causes the uterine lining, known as the endometrium, to grow outside of the uterus. The growth of endometrial tissue outside of the uterus can cause inflammation, pain, scar tissue, and make it more difficult to conceive.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
At times, it is possible to suffer from endometriosis without any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Formation of scar tissue
- Painful menstruation
- Long or abnormal menstruation cycles
- Frequent lower abdominal pain, back pain, and burning pain that continues throughout the month
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Ovarian swelling
- Painful urination or bowel movements
- Dysmenorrhea
- Swollen abdomen
- Infertility
Tips For Living With Endometriosis and Infertility
First and foremost, your doctor may recommend treatment methods for your endometriosis and to aid in your fertility. However, there are a few things you can do at home to improve your endometriosis and therefore increase your chances of conception. In fact, simple lifestyle changes have been found effective in helping with endometriosis. Be sure to talk with your doctor to make sure these tips are safe for you.
- Eat the Right Foods: Certain foods have been linked to flare-ups in endometriosis. When possible, try to decreasing the your intake of:
- Wheat (gluten)
- Dairy products
- Red meat
- Pork
- Soy
The best foods to eat to help with endometriosis and infertility include:
- Fresh vegetables and fruit
- Foods high in fiber (such as dark leafy greens and beans)
- Essential Fatty Acids: Omega 3, 6, and 9 (such as avocado and salmon)
- Avoid Certain Toxins: It has been found that exposure to certain toxins can worsen endometriosis and even contribute to its development. To be safe, take the following precautions:
- Use natural feminine care products
- Opt for makeup and body care products with natural ingredients
- Avoid food preservatives and dyes
- For laundry, use non-chlorinated oxygen based bleach
- Avoid pesticides, herbicides, and other synthetic fertilizers
- Use low VOC paint
- Opt for recycled, unbleached paper products
- Avoid plastics
If you are suffering from endometriosis and infertility, it is wise to seek the help of a professional, such as the doctors at Carolinas Fertility Institute. Conception is possible with the right team of people behind you.
Learn More Today
We invite you to explore Carolinas Fertility Institute and our wide range of infertility services. Our providers are experts in treating endometriosis and infertility and would welcome the opportunity to help you achieve your family dreams. Schedule an appointment today.