What Is Endometriosis? Symptoms, Causes & How It Affects Fertility
Endometriosis is a common yet often misunderstood gynaecological condition affecting millions of women worldwide. It can lead to chronic pelvic pain, irregular periods, and in some cases, infertility. If you’re struggling with any of these symptoms, understanding the condition is the first step toward effective treatment and relief.
At Hera Clinic, Punawale, under the care of Dr. Sairandhri Kate-Shinde (MBBS, DNB, OBGY, FMAS) — one of the best gynaecologists in PCMC Pune — we specialize in diagnosing and treating endometriosis with compassion and expertise.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where the tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) starts growing outside the uterus — on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, and other nearby organs. This misplaced tissue behaves like normal endometrium: it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds every month during the menstrual cycle, but the blood has nowhere to go, causing inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue or adhesions.
Common Symptoms of Endometriosis
- Severe pelvic pain, especially during periods
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Pain during intercourse
- Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
- Lower back pain or abdominal pain
- Pain during bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation
- Chronic fatigue and bloating
- Difficulty conceiving (infertility)
If you are experiencing these symptoms, consult a gynaecologist near you for early diagnosis and effective management.
What Causes Endometriosis?
- Retrograde menstruation – menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity instead of out of the body
- Genetic predisposition – family history of endometriosis
- Immune system disorders – that fail to remove misplaced tissue
- Hormonal imbalances – especially estrogen dominance
- Surgical scars – endometrial cells may attach to incision sites after surgery like C-sections
How Endometriosis Affects Fertility
One of the most distressing impacts of endometriosis is on a woman’s fertility. Up to 30-50% of women with endometriosis may experience difficulty getting pregnant. Here's how it can affect your ability to conceive:
- Distorted pelvic anatomy – adhesions or cysts (endometriomas) on ovaries can block eggs or affect ovulation
- Inflammation in the pelvis – can damage sperm or eggs
- Impaired implantation – due to endometrial abnormalities
- Hormonal imbalance – affecting ovulation and menstrual cycles
But the good news is: many women with endometriosis go on to conceive successfully, especially with timely medical help.
🧪 How is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
- Pelvic examination
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- MRI for advanced imaging
- Laparoscopy – a minimally invasive procedure that confirms diagnosis and allows treatment simultaneously
- Hormonal blood tests
Treatment Options for Endometriosis
The treatment depends on your age, symptoms, and desire to conceive. Options include:
🔹 Medical Management:
- Pain relief medications (NSAIDs)
- Hormonal therapy – birth control pills, GnRH agonists, progestins to suppress endometrial growth
🔹 Surgical Management:
- Laparoscopic surgery – to remove endometrial implants, cysts, and scar tissue
- Fertility-enhancing surgeries – to restore pelvic anatomy
🔹 Fertility Treatments:
- Ovulation induction
- IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
- IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) – effective in moderate to severe cases
When to See a Gynaecologist?
- Have painful or irregular periods
- Experience painful intercourse
- Have chronic pelvic pain
- Are trying to conceive for over 6-12 months without success
- Suspect endometriosis symptoms based on your cycle or medical history
Early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve quality of life and fertility outcomes.
Why Choose Hera Clinic for Endometriosis Treatment in Punawale?
At Hera Clinic, Punawale, we provide compassionate and personalized care for all women’s health concerns. Dr. Sairandhri Kate-Shinde is a trusted and experienced gynaecologist near Wakad, Hinjewadi, Tathawade, and Ravet, known for helping women manage endometriosis and fertility challenges successfully.
📍 Clinic Details:
Hera Clinic – Advanced Women’s Health & Fertility Care
📧 Email: shailysmily@gmail.com
📍 Address: Shop No. 8, Ground Floor, Infinity Cube, D-Wing 44/1/2, Malwadi, Punawale, PCMC, Pune 411033
🌐 Website: www.heraclinics.in