How Can Physiotherapy Impact IVF Outcomes?
Infertility can be a heartbreaking struggle for many women diagnosed with endometriosis. While in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a common solution, addressing underlying biomechanical issues like pelvic adhesions can significantly improve outcomes. Physiotherapy, particularly manual soft-tissue therapy, a specialised hands-on technique including massage, acupressure, and myofascial release, is proving to be a valuable tool for enhancing fertility and increasing the success rate of IVF for women with endometriosis.
How Pelvic Adhesions Affect IVF Success
Pelvic adhesions, a major factor in mechanical infertility, are often seen in women with endometriosis. These adhesions are fibrous tissues that form after surgery, infection, inflammation, or trauma. They can form in various parts of the reproductive system, interfering with both natural conception and assisted reproductive technologies like IVF. These adhesions can affect:
- Uterine walls: Adhesions here can lead to spasms and make implantation difficult, reducing the chances of pregnancy or increasing the risk of miscarriage.
- Cervix: Adhesions at the cervix can cause stenosis or tightness, making it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus.
- Ovaries and fallopian tubes: Adhesions can prevent the release of eggs or block the fallopian tubes, decreasing the likelihood of successful fertilization.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Treating Pelvic Adhesions and Infertility
Physiotherapy, specifically through manual soft-tissue therapy, can help treat pelvic adhesions by breaking down the fibrous tissue that restricts organ movement. By improving tissue mobility and restoring the function of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, physiotherapy helps create a healthier environment for IVF and natural conception. As a result, this treatment can:
- Reduce uterine spasms: By releasing tension and improving elasticity in the uterine walls, physiotherapy can help create a more relaxed environment for embryo implantation.
- Alleviate cervical stenosis: Manual therapy can relieve tightness in the cervix, improving sperm transport during IVF procedures.
- Enhance ovarian and fallopian tube function: By breaking down adhesions around the ovaries and fallopian tubes, physiotherapy can improve egg release and reduce the risk of tubal blockages.
A Complementary Approach to IVF for Women with Endometriosis
Approximately 40% of female infertility cases are related to biomechanical issues like pelvic adhesions and scarring. Physiotherapy offers a safe and effective way to address these issues and reduces the need for additional surgeries or invasive treatments. Physiotherapy is an innovative, non-invasive treatment option that carries few risks or side effects.While IVF is a widely-used fertility treatment, combining it with physiotherapy may further enhance its success rates, particularly in women with endometriosis.
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