Endometriosis Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue from the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and/or bowel. Research indicates that it accounts for between 5 and 30 percent of female infertility. Several factors may contribute to infertility, including:
Scar tissue: Rigid webs of scar tissue may form between the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, preventing the transfer of the egg to the fallopian tubes. Cysts: Endometrial cysts may grow inside the ovaries and prevent the release of the egg or its collection by the fallopian tube. Poor egg implantation: Endometriosis may prevent the fertilized egg from adhering to the uterine wall.
Early detection of the condition is key to its successful control and to preserving fertility, so tell your doctor if you've had:
A family history of endometriosis Painful menstrual cramps or pain at ovulation Extremely heavy menstrual flow Diarrhea or painful bowel movements, especially around your period Painful sexual intercourse
In some cases, women with endometriosis have no painful symptoms. In these instances, the condition can only be confirmed with an outpatient surgical procedure called a laparoscopy.
Sexually transmitted diseases More than 65 million Americans, including teenagers, are infected with at least one STDs. Some STDs are asymptomatic and lie undetected in women. (For instance, 70 percent of women with chlamydia show no symptoms and consequently don't seek treatment.) The bad news is that STDs can lead to tubal scarring, ectopic pregnancy, other reproductive problems, and ultimately infertility if left untreated. To reduce this risk:
Use latex condoms to stop diseases from spreading Consider that people with multiple sex partners are at the highest risk for STDs Detect and treat infections early if possible (both partners should be treated if either has an infection)
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