In pain & trying to conceive? - It could be Endometriosis or Adenomyosis

Endometriosis is when cells that line the uterus are found in other parts of the body and is a very common condition present in women trying to conceive.  We look carefully for it, treat it by performing laparoscopic surgery and removing it.  There is good evidence that treating endometriosis increases the chances of having a baby.
 
Adenomyosis is a condition of the uterus where the cells that form the lining on the inside of the uterus also grow in the muscle wall of the uterus.  Each month, these buried areas of lining bleed, and cause inflammation, swelling and release of chemicals and hormones which lead to pain.
 
Adenomyosis and Endometriosis are often found together.
 
When a woman has painful heavy periods, and is having trouble conceiving, part of the cause of her symptoms may also be adenomyosis.  There is new evidence accumulating which shows that adenomyosis, when present,
further adversely affects the chances of conception.
 
The diagnosis of adenomyosis involves careful examination, and ultrasound assessment of the uterus.  MRI is sometimes used.  The treatment offered depends on each woman’s situation, but can involve drug treatment, prior to IVF.  With specific treatment of adenomyosis, the chances of having a baby can be significantly improved.
 
Your Ballarat IVF and SouthWest Fertility Gynaecologists are experts in assessing you for the presence of adenomyosis, and will give you personalized advice regarding the best treatment.

---