Navigating the Journey of Conception amidst Endometriosis: A Personal Reflection

by Claire Lawrence

One night I stood in front of a towering mirror fixed to the wall. There, I confronted my reflection, a weary visage staring back at me, accentuating the dire need for a sleep after an exhausting day. My gaze drifted down following the curves of my body and then I focused on my large swollen abdomen locally besieged by the relentless torment of endometriosis. It was an endo flare-up, but amidst the discomfort I gently caressed my abdominal area, and smiled as I entertained the fanciful notion that this protrusion was not merely a symptom of my ailment, but rather a nascent miracle in the making. This was a moment of wishful thinking.

The conception plan & possible endo cure?

A pivotal aspect of my fertility journey involved consultations with fertility specialists to address my endometriosis. Hopeful that pregnancy might alleviate my condition, I sought reassurance from medical professionals who suggested this possibility. However, a candid discussion with my fertility doctor revealed the sobering truth that pregnancy does not serve as a cure for endometriosis. Nonetheless, I remain hopeful for relief from the debilitating symptoms and potential improvements in my condition.

The prospect of enduring further discomfort during pregnancy due to existing adhesions and the physical strain of a growing fetus looms. Yet, amidst these uncertainties, I have resolved to prioritize both my mental and physical well-being. Embracing life's opportunities, I have embarked on a fertility journey with the singular goal of achieving pregnancy. Despite the potential challenges that lie ahead, I remain steadfast in my determination to navigate this journey with resilience and optimism.

My fertility doctor guided me through the plan of action to conceive. He advised that my husband and I would need to have sex at least once a week for a duration of six months. Failure to conceive within this timeframe would necessitate another laparoscopy procedure to address any new growths that may have developed during the period I was off my contraception treatment for endometriosis. Should conception remain elusive, the prospect of undergoing IVF and additional fertility assessments is a great possibility and the next step in the plan.

In the midst of these challenges, I am endeavoring to mitigate stress, recognizing its potential impact on our journey toward parenthood. Trying not to stress about stress is actually like a dog chasing it`s tail. It`s a stagnating and unhealthy mental prison which should be avoided. So, instead, I will just let be and let God or nature take its course.

Whatever happens... happens!

To all women confronting fertility issues, I commend your resilience and unwavering spirit amidst the uncertainties of this journey. While our paths may diverge, our capacity for nurturing and compassion knows no bounds. We are undesignated mothers; we are mothers to many. Let us persevere with optimism, knowing that regardless of the obstacles we encounter, we possess the strength to continue moving forward and thriving.

And so, my fertility journey begins…

I wish you an endo. flare-free day!