How to Get Pregnant with Adenomyosis Naturally

Adenomyosis is a gynecological disorder that occurs when endometrial tissue (inner lining cells of the uterus) penetrates into the myometrium (muscular wall), resulting in an enlarged uterus, which can cause severe pain and heavy bleeding during menstruation. [1]

This condition may make it more difficult to get pregnant. [2] If you or a loved one have symptoms of adenomyosis, you may have wondered how to get pregnant with adenomyosis naturally. Here are some steps you can take to improve reproductive health.

By: Dr. Kenosha Gleaton

Diagnosing Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is most common among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, with 80% of women diagnosed being between the ages of 40-50 years old. Symptoms are typically more severe in older women. However, up to 30% of women with adenomyosis will have no symptoms at all. [2]

Symptoms of Adenomyosis

If you experience any of the following adenomyosis symptoms, you may want to consider seeing a medical professional [1,2]:

• Pelvic pain

• Feeling heavy or bloated in the abdomen

• Heavy bleeding during period

• Pain during sex

• Severe menstrual cramps

• Enlarged uterus

Steps to Diagnosis

Diagnosis usually begins with a physical exam where the doctor examines your symptoms and feels the uterus. The next step is to get an ultrasound so your doctor can check for signs of adenomyosis. Finally, an MRI is given as the final tool to confirm diagnosis as it offers high-resolution images. [1-3]

How Adenomyosis Impacts Fertility and Conception

In recent years, more women with adenomyosis are presenting with infertility as many women are now waiting until age 30-40 to try to conceive. [2] However, a correlation between adenomyosis and fertility has not been fully established. The data is contradictory and inconsistent, but some researchers cite a small association of 11-12%. [1]

Recent research has shown that adenomyosis negatively impacts fertility, including pregnancy, live birth rate, and in vitro fertilization. It also has been shown to increase the risk of miscarriage as well as pregnancy complications such as premature birth. [3]

Risk Factors for Fertility Issues Related to Adenomyosis

Some risk factors for adenomyosis and fertility complications include [1,2]:

• Age

• Endometriosis

• Surgical trauma such as C-section

• Smoking

• Previous births

• Increased estrogen from high body mass index

• Use of contraceptives or tamoxifen use

Lifestyle Changes to Improve Fertility

You can make many lifestyle changes to boost your fertility and help you get pregnant with adenomyosis naturally.

Nutrition

Following a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet is crucial for maintaining overall health and enhancing fertility. A diet high in fresh vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and lean proteins will promote healthy fertility and reduce inflammation, which is associated with adenomyosis. [3,4]

Exercise

Exercising regularly can improve overall health, reduce stress, regulate hormones, and improve blood flow to the reproductive organs. However, over-exercising can alter hormonal balance and negatively impact the reproductive system. [4]

Consider a daily routine of light to moderate exercise for 30-60 minutes to improve your overall health and fertility. Choose exercise that you enjoy, such as walking, riding a bike, swimming, or practicing yoga.

Body Weight

Being both under or overweight can have negative impacts on fertility. Maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) will improve hormonal health and enhance fertility. [4]

A healthy BMI is between 18.5 and 29. Under 18.5 is considered underweight, and 25 or higher is considered overweight. Women with a BMI of 30 or higher have been found to take longer to conceive than women with a BMI in the range of 20-25. [4]

Mental Health and Stress Management

Stress can negatively impact both the mind and body. Chronic stress may make it more difficult to conceive and sustain a pregnancy. Having healthy coping skills to manage stress and maintain your mental health may improve your chances of getting pregnant, as well as help you and your baby stay healthy throughout the pregnancy. [4]

Below are some healthy coping skills to consider to manage your stress and stay mentally well:

• Keep a journal to express your feelings

• Practice self care

• Meditate or pray

• Take deep breaths

• Spend time in nature

• Spend time with friends

• Stay educated on mental health

• Seek mental health support

Limit Drugs, Alcohol, and Environmental Exposures

Smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, and taking certain prescription or illicit drugs can all negatively impact fertility outcomes. Research has shown that high doses of caffeine may decrease fertility. [4] Avoiding or limiting these substances may help you improve your chances of getting pregnant naturally with adenomyosis.

Environmental exposures such as heavy metals, air pollution, pesticides, and other toxic chemicals have all been shown to disrupt reproductive health. [4] Unfortunately, we often have little control over exposure to these toxins. Being aware of toxic substances and limiting your exposure, when possible, may help improve overall fertility.

Preventive Care

Taking a multivitamin is a simple preventative care practice that can improve overall health and support a healthy reproductive system. Women who take multivitamins may be less likely to experience infertility. Research has shown that women who take six or more vitamins and supplements have the lowest relative risk of infertility. [4] Many women may choose to take a prenatal vitamin while trying to get pregnant.

To Summarize

While having adenomyosis symptoms may make it more difficult to get pregnant, a scientific correlation has not been established. Furthermore, a woman can take many steps to help improve her fertility outcomes. It is possible to conceive naturally and have a healthy pregnancy with adenomyosis.

Natalist offers a wide range of science-backed preconception and pregnancy products to support women on their fertility journey. Discover products like our fertility test, prenatal vitamins, and self-care bundles. Furthermore, if you are looking for valuable resources and information regarding pregnancy and fertility, visit the Natalist online learning library.

Sources

1. Gunther, R. & Walker, C. Adenomyosis. Stat Pearls: National Library of Medicine. 2024. Medical Citation URL.

2. Harada, T., Khine, Y.M., Kaponis, A., et al. The impact of adenomyosis on women’s fertility. Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey. 2016; 71(9): 557-568. doi: 10.1097/OGX.0000000000000346

3. Zukiewicz-Sobczak, W., Wojtyla-Buciora, P., Racka, I., et al. Adenomyosis and infertility- a review of medical and surgical approaches. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18(3): 1235. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18031235

4. Sharma, R., Biedenharnm K.,Fedor, J., et al. Lifestyle factors and reproductive health: taking control of your fertility. Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology. 2013, 11:66 doi: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-66