Generally, endometriosis in the last months of pregnancy and during breastfeeding tends to regress, easing abdominal pain.
However, endometriosis may return after delivery and some women may even experience worsening of symptoms especially during the first three months of pregnancy.
Does Pregnancy Cure Endometriosis?
Usually, pregnancy improves the symptoms of endometriosis during the last months of pregnancy. However, some women may experience worsening of symptoms particularly during the first few months.
It is not known what causes this improvement, but it is believed that the beneficial effects are due to the high levels of progesterone that are produced during pregnancy, which may suppress the growth and development of endometriosis lesions, making them less active . The beneficial effects may also be due to the absence of menstruation during the gestation period.
Worsening of symptoms in the first few months may be due to the rapid growth of the uterus that can cause tissue damage, as well as high levels of estrogen, which can also worsen symptoms.
For women who experience improvements in endometriosis during pregnancy, it is good to know that these beneficial effects are only temporary, and that endometriosis symptoms may return after pregnancy. However, during breastfeeding, symptoms may also decrease as it inhibits ovarian release of estrogen, thus suppressing ovulation and the growth and development of endometriosis.
Does endometriosis make pregnancy difficult?
In some cases endometriosis can make pregnancy difficult, especially when the endometrial tissue attaches to the fallopian tubes and prevents the passage of the mature egg into the uterus, preventing conception. However, there are reports of several women who were able to conceive naturally even though they had endometriosis because their ovaries and fallopian tubes were not affected by the disease and their fertility was preserved.
However, some women need to stimulate ovulation naturally or with the use of medications to get pregnant in endometriosis.
Treatment for endometriosis in pregnancy
Treatment for endometriosis in pregnancy is unnecessary and surgery is only indicated if there is a risk of death of the mother or baby. For many doctors, any other situation should wait until the birth of the baby to be treated.
Endometriosis Causes Pregnancy At Risk?
Endometriosis can cause a serious pregnancy if it is severe or severe. In this case, the woman may be at risk of:
- Having an ectopic pregnancy;
- Suffering from an abortion;
- Having a preterm birth;
- Suffer rupture of the veins that irrigate the uterus;
- Have complications related to the placenta;
- Suffer with eclampsia;
- Need a c-section.
Due to severe and unexpected complications of the disease, it is recommended that deep, moderate or severe endometriosis be completely eliminated before attempting to become pregnant.
If a woman is diagnosed with endometriosis during pregnancy, it is recommended that the obstetrician pay special attention and perform specific gynecological examinations to prevent complications. See the exams used in cases of endometriosis.
