Endometriosis is a disorder in which the tissue that normally drives the uterus called the endometrium, grows outside the uterine cavity. It can be contained on the outside of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes.
The ovaries are responsible for releasing an egg every month and the fallopian tubes carry the egg from the ovaries to the uterus, Healthline writes. When any of these organs are damaged, blocked, or irritated by the endometrium, it may be more difficult to maintain the fetus or become pregnant. Your age, health and severity of your condition will also affect your chances of keeping a baby during pregnancy.
Will the symptoms of endometriosis improve or worsen during pregnancy?
Pregnancy will temporarily stop the painful periods and heavy menstrual bleeding that is often characteristic of endometriosis. It may provide another relief. Your experience during pregnancy may be very different from other pregnant women with endometriosis. The severity of your condition, the production of your body’s hormone and the way your body responds to pregnancy, all influence how you feel.
Risks and complications
Endometriosis can increase the risk of pregnancy and childbirth complications. This can be caused by inflammation, structural damage to the uterus and hormonal influences that cause endometriosis.
Abortion
Several studies have documented that the abortion rate is higher in women with endometriosis than in women without this condition.
Premature birth
According to an analysis of several studies, pregnant women with endometriosis are 1.5 times more likely to deliver their baby before the 37th week. Prematurely born babies tend to have a low birth weight and are more likely to experience health and developmental problems.
Placenta previa
During pregnancy, your uterus will develop a placenta. The placenta is the structure that supplies oxygen and nourishment – your growing fetus. It normally attaches to the upper or lateral part of the uterus. In some women, the placenta ascends to the bottom of the womb at the cervical opening. This is known as placenta previa.
Women with endometriosis may be at increased risk for this life-threatening condition. The main symptom is bright red vaginal bleeding. If bleeding is minimal, you may be advised to limit your activities, including intimate relationships and exercise. If the bleeding is severe, you may need a blood transfusion and an emergency C-section. /mommytobe
