Endometriosis Impacts Lesbian and F to M Pregnancy

Endometriosis impacts female reproductive organs and can be an obstacle for lesbian and F to M gender queer pregnancy.

Endometriosis occurs when the tissue lining the inside of the uterus spreads to the outside, often attaching to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, the lining of the pelvic cavity, or other parts of the lower abdomen.

Accurate diagnosis of endometriosis is important regardless of pain severity. Even mild cases of endometriosis can affect female fertility due to organ damage, embryo implantation problems, increased white blood cells within the abdominal area, and stress on the immune system.

While pelvic or ultrasound exams may suggest endometriosis, the only way to definitively diagnosis the disease is with direct inspection via laparoscopy. A laparoscope is a long, thin, flexible, telescope-like instrument, inserted through a small surgical incision just below the navel. The surgeon can then view and treat endometriosis or other pelvic conditions, if indicated.

Symptoms of endometriosis
Symptoms of endometriosis may include pain, infertility, and abnormal menstrual bleeding. Related pain, which might occur at different points in the menstrual cycle, can be severe. However, some women with endometriosis may not experience discomfort.
Normally, tissues and fluids are expelled during menstruation, but the tissue from endometriosis has no place to go. The result can be inflammation and scar tissue formation around the locations of the endometrial implants.

Treatment for endometriosis
For mild or moderate endometriosis pain, nonprescription pain relievers (aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen) may be helpful. If these don't provide relief or if pain is severe, a prescription pain medication may be needed. Some women have found additional relief using acupuncture, meditation, and exercise. In some cases, hormone therapy, surgery, or both treatments may be necessary.

Hormone therapy and/or surgery to remove endometrial implants may help to relieve symptoms temporarily and may make it possible to conceive.

This information is provided for general education purposes and is not intended to take the place of a discussion with your physician. If you have questions about any aspect of your health, you are advised to speak with your physician.