Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a painful condition that can affect the ability to get pregnant. According to the Endometriosis Association, up to 6.3 million American women are affected.
When it comes to endometriosis, endometrial tissue grows in the wrong place (endometrial implant). This tissue normally lines the uterus. But in those with endometriosis, it grows outside of the uterus in places where it shouldn't.
Consequently, a woman’s menstrual cycle is affected because the tissue acts in the same way it would during a menstrual cycle. It increases and then tries to expel itself. However, it has nowhere to go to exit the body. As a result, a woman bleeds internally. This can lead to pain, infertility, bowel problems and scar tissue formation.
If you think that you may have endometriosis, talk to your doctor about this issue. Getting your medical team onboard is essential.
PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)
According to the Mayo Clinic, PCOS is an endocrine system disorder that affects women of childbearing age. PCOS can lead to the development of follicles on the ovaries, found through an ultrasound. This can make periods irregular or nonexistent and may cause other issues. For example, women with PCOS may grow facial hair, develop acne or gain weight.
While the exact cause of PCOS is not known, excess insulin, inflammation and genetics may play a role in this health condition. But there are ways to increase the chance of pregnancy in the face of PCOS. Doctors can prescribe medications that will help ovulation. For example, Clomiphene is an anti-estrogen medication that may help.