Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus. This disorder is often linked with unexplained infertility because of the disruption of normal embryo implantation caused by the growth. Endometriosis treatment can help improve your chances of getting pregnant because it either removes the endometriosis from the uterine lining through surgical laparoscopy providing a more normal surface for the embryo to attach to or by hormone suppression which also reduces the inflammatory condition caused by the disease. The ReceptivaDx test looks for a protein marker called BCL6 which is highly associated with endometriosis.using an endometrial biopsy A positive result provides doctors a key clue to solving and treating the infertility issue.
Pain Medication for Endometriosis
For women with symptomatic endometriosis, pain is a major symptom that can indicate the existence of the disease. This inflammation can affect the pelvis, uterus, and surrounding organs. The inflammation causes pain which most women feel during menstruation and sex. Painful sex may make it difficult for women to get pregnant.
OBs and fertility specialists use NSAIDs like naproxen or ibuprofen to relieve pain caused by endometriosis. There are also new medications like Orilissa(R) that have been FDA approved specifically for pain caused by endometriosis. While pain-relieving medication can help make sex more comfortable for women, no publlshed studies show that any of these medications directy affect the reduction of imflammation due to endometriosis. However, Cicero Diagnostics, the provider of ReceptivaDx, is currently running an NIH study to specifically look at the efficacy of Orilissa.
Hormone Therapy
The role of hormone therapy in managing fertility patients with a positive ReceptivaDx test is to stop the production of estrogen and progesterone long enough for the endometriosis to subside in the uterus. After treatment, patients continue IVF implantation or often get pregnant naturally. Studies published show the specific use of a class of drugs called GnRh agonists like Lupron Depot as the preferred treatment regimen, usually a 60 day course.
Surgery
Surgery is another treatment alternative that helps remove endometrial tissue in areas that affect implantation. Deep incision laparoscopy is the primary surgical tool used to identify and then cut out the excess tissue. They make an incision below the navel and place a small viewing instrument to see areas with possible endometrial growth. Experts then use laparoscopic instruments to destroy the tissue or remove cysts.
Endometriosis Treatments Can Address Unexplained Infertility
Unexplained infertility can be frustrating, but endometriosis may be the underlying cause. ReceptivaDX aims to provide women experiencing unexplained infertility with answers about their condition. Contact us for more information.