There are many uterine conditions that can impact fertility. Some of the most common uterine conditions that can impact fertility include:
Uterine fibroids:
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumours that grow in the uterus. Fibroids can distort the shape of the uterus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg or for the fertilised egg to implant.
They are very common, affecting about 2 in 3 women by the time they reach the age of 50. Fibroids can be small and cause no symptoms, or they can be large and cause a variety of problems, including:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Painful menstrual cramps
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Infertility
There is no cure for uterine fibroids, but there are a number of treatments that can help to relieve symptoms and support in improving fertility outcomes. Treatment options include:
Medication: There are a number of medications that can be used to treat the symptoms of uterine fibroids, including birth control pills, pain relievers, and hormone therapy.
Surgery: Surgery may be an option for women who have severe symptoms or who are unable to get pregnant because of fibroids. There are a number of different surgical procedures that can be used to remove fibroids, including hysterectomy, myomectomy, and uterine artery embolization.
Endometriosis:
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can build up and cause pain, inflammation, and scarring. Endometriosis can block the fallopian tubes, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg or for the fertilised egg to implant.
According to Endometriosis UK (source), an estimated 1.5 million women in the UK have endometriosis. This means that around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age in the UK have the condition.
The best way to diagnose and treat endometriosis will vary depending on the individual woman’s symptoms and medical history. There are a number of tests that can be used to help diagnose endometriosis, including:
- Pelvic exam: A pelvic exam can help your doctor to look for signs of endometriosis, such as painful nodules or cysts on the ovaries.
- Blood tests: Blood tests can be used to check for certain substances that are produced by endometriosis, such as CA-125.
- Ultrasound: An ultrasound can be used to look for signs of endometriosis, such as fluid-filled cysts on the ovaries.
- Laparoscopy: A laparoscopy is a surgical procedure in which a small incision is made in the abdomen and a camera is inserted to look for signs of endometriosis. This is the most accurate way to diagnose endometriosis.
Treatment
There is no cure for endometriosis, but there are a number of treatments that can help. Some of the most common treatments for endometriosis include:
- Hormone therapy:can help to suppress the growth of endometriosis tissue.
- Surgery: can be used to remove endometriosis tissue.
- Pain management: medications can be used to help relieve pain caused by endometriosis.
- Fertility treatment: If you are trying to get pregnant, fertility treatment may be an option.
Uterine malformations:
Uterine malformations are congenital defects in the shape of the uterus. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic mutations, environmental toxins, and infections. These defects can make it difficult for sperm to reach the egg or for the fertilised egg to implant.
There is no exact number of UK women who suffer from uterine malformations, as many cases are undiagnosed. However, it is estimated that around 1 in 40 women have a uterine malformation.
Uterine malformations can cause a variety of problems, including infertility, miscarriage, and preterm birth. They can also make it difficult to have a vaginal delivery.
Diagnosis
There is no single test that can definitively diagnose uterine malformations. However, there are a number of tests that can be used to help diagnose uterine malformations, including:
- Pelvic exam
- Ultrasound
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
- Laparoscopy
Treatment
The treatment for uterine malformations will depend on the type of malformation and the woman’s individual needs. Some women with uterine malformations may not need any treatment, while others may need surgery, medication, or fertility treatments.
Asherman’s syndrome:
Asherman’s syndrome is a condition in which scar tissue forms in the uterus. This scar tissue can block the fallopian tubes, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg or for the fertilised egg to implant.
There is no exact number of women in the UK who experience Asherman’s syndrome, as it is often misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all.
However, it is estimated that around 1 in 1,000 women in the UK may have the condition. Asherman’s syndrome is more common in women who have had a D&C (dilation and curettage) procedure, as this can damage the lining of the uterus and lead to the formation of scar tissue. The condition can also be caused by pelvic infections, childbirth, and other medical procedures.
Uterine infection:
Uterine infection can have a significant impact on fertility and it is estimated that around 1 in 20 women in the UK will experience a uterine infection at some point in their lives.
The infection can damage the lining of the uterus, making it difficult for an embryo to implant and grow. The infection can also block the fallopian tubes, preventing sperm from reaching the egg. In addition, the infection can increase the risk of miscarriage.
If you have a uterine infection, it is important to see a doctor to get treated. Treatment will usually involve antibiotics. Once the infection is cleared up, you may need to wait a few months before trying to get pregnant. This will give your body time to heal and your fertility to return to normal.
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