Innovations in Silent Endometriosis Treatments
Silent endometriosis is a condition in which endometrial-like tissue develops outside the uterus. Unlike traditional endometriosis, this condition does not come with obvious symptoms, like pelvic pain during menstruation or discomfort during sexual intercourse. Here is more information about this condition and the innovations available for treating it:
Understanding Silent Endometriosis
Silent endometriosis has the potential to affect fertility, reproductive health, and an individual’s overall quality of life. Some individuals only discover this issue during infertility evaluations, which means the disease has been affecting their bodies for years without detection. Patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) often experience embryo transfer failures if endometriosis is present; identifying and treating this issue before using IVF may help improve success rates. Without treatment, this condition also progresses over time. Lesions may grow larger, cause pelvic adhesions, and damage reproductive organs. Identifying this condition early allows medical professionals to tailor their treatment, rather than just treating an unknown fertility issue.
Getting a MyReceptiva Test
The MyReceptiva test is an innovative test that measures BCL6 overexpression in the endometrium. BCL6 is a protein marker; it is associated with inflammatory signals and progesterone resistance in the uterine lining. High levels of BCL6 can be associated with endometriosis. Rather than undergoing an invasive surgical procedure to test for endometriosis, the MyReceptiva test provides an alternative solution. The process involves the following steps:
- An endometrial biopsy is performed seven to 10 days after a regular ovulation cycle
- A healthcare provider collects the biopsy sample using a small catheter
- The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis
- The lab evaluates markers like BCL6 and sends results to the patient’s provider
This test is a beneficial tool for understanding the endometrial environment. It provides insight into why inflammatory changes affect implantation, especially in failed IVF cycles. When combined with a careful evaluation of the patient’s clinical history, providers may be better equipped to tailor fertility treatments.
Exploring Treatment Solutions
Treatment solutions vary depending on the severity of the disease and an individual’s fertility goals. Some interventions affect an individual’s ability to conceive, so it is key to determine if the priority is relieving symptoms, delaying pregnancy, or achieving pregnancy. Treatment solutions for silent endometriosis include:
Surgical Interventions
Surgical treatments include laparoscopy, in which a doctor makes a small incision and inserts a small camera into the space. If they view any lesions or adhesions on the camera, the doctor can use small surgical instruments to remove or destroy the tissue. These techniques are called ablation or excision. Ablation works well on superficial lesions; excision is preferred for deeper areas where endometriosis has infiltrated the tissue or organs. Because the incision is so small, recovery is not as extensive as open surgery options.
Hormone Therapies
Hormone therapies help manage endometriosis by influencing the growth of the uterine lining. These treatments adjust hormone levels in the body, which helps reduce the activity of endometrial tissue. These treatments come in the form of medications that lower certain reproductive hormones, or injectable options that support normal uterine cycles. Implants, like intrauterine systems (IUSs), are also available. Doctors recommend different approaches depending on a patient’s symptoms; they also vary depending on reproductive plans, as some treatments affect ovulation and fertility.
Test for Silent Endometriosis
For patients struggling to conceive or who notice irregular symptoms during their menstrual cycle, it may be beneficial to research diagnostic options for silent endometriosis. Medical experts carefully examine patients through non-invasive tests, imaging studies, or other evaluations to get insights into what is causing fertility problems. Reach out to the My Receptiva team today to learn more about the testing process.
