When to start trying to conceive with endometriosis?
I am 24 years old and currently in the process of getting an endometriosis diagnosis. Towards the end of last year I had a happy unplanned pregnancy, but unfortunately at 4 weeks lost the pregnancy. Now that I am being diagnosed with endometriosis I am wondering if this was a contributing factor to my miscarriage. I am still young, and without a diagnosis probably wouldn’t be thinking about my odds of conceiving however I can’t help but fear that my endometriosis will get progressively worse and lessen my chances of being able to conceive/carry to full term. Any advice? Or any stories of peoples endometriosis getting worse/better over the years?
I'm so sorry to hear that you lost your pregnancy. But there's definitely hope for getting pregnant in the future. I know women in their 30s and early 40s with endo who've gotten pregnant — either naturally or with fertility treatment.
While it's true that endo is a progressive disease, it's very hard to predict how it'll take its course. I was diagnosed at 24 and I've had 3 surgeries since then (I'm 40 now). Each one addressed a different issue, but between 2010 and 2021 -- between my 2nd and 3rd surgery, when I wasn't on hormonal suppression or birth control — my endo lesions didn't "spread" and I didn't develop new endometriomas. That may have helped stop progression, but there's no way to know for sure.
I think it's a good idea to bring up your concerns about fertility with a doctor. They can let you know what's a good option for next steps. But remember that they shouldn't force you into a decision before you're ready, whether that's surgery or trying to get pregnant.
https://endometriosis.net/living/story-pregnant
https://endometriosis.net/infertility
https://endometriosis.net/clinical/treatment-strategies-for-pregnancy
https://endometriosis.net/living/questions-answers-2
so very saddened and sorry to hear about your pregnancy dear warrior. Endo sure is no joke and can disrupt pregnancy for some, especially if they have other things going on or that they are dealing with. But also, I know so many with endometriosis who have become pregnant with their miracles. Whether it was naturally or IVF. So it certainly is possible. And there is so much hope. Keri left some great articles to check out. And I do agree with her, I would certainly address your concerns with your doctor or a doctor if yours isn't being supportive or helpful. Sending you all the good thoughts I can. Please know, we are here for you too and that you are not alone. Reach out anytime. Hugs <3 -Kimberli (team member)
