Are you wondering how the endometrial lining reflects in the chances of getting pregnant? Well, it plays a vital role in the whole process of conception as it is the thick healthy endometrium which gives rise to embryo implantation.
Reasons as to why endometrial thickness holds great importance have been explained in the following article along with certain tips and treatments to increase the endometrium size and your chances of pregnancy.
What is Endometrium?
The endometrium serves as the internal lining of the uterus, and it plays a very important role in women’s health. It has a direct effect on menstruation, pregnancy, and fertility in women.
This functions to help in embryo attachment and growth, and gives nourishment and oxygen. For a healthy pregnancy, the endometrium needs to be the optimal size, neither too thick nor too thin.
Ideal Endometrium Size for Pregnancy
There is no consistent size for the endometrium; it changes during the life cycle of an individual.
However, for pregnancy, it must be of a suitable size for a successful full-term outcome. A good-sized endometrium that permits pregnancy is 7-10 mm thick with a trilaminar interface.
With this thickness during the ongoing pregnancy, it can increase up to 10-16 mm. For any lesser thickness of 7 mm or under, pregnancy outcomes may not be favorable.
How To Measure Endometrium Size
Ultrasounds are perhaps the most commonly used way to see the endometrial thickness in menstruating women, who have abnormal or irregular vaginal bleeding.Â
If ultrasounds cannot be performed due to the position of the uterus or other medical reasons, an MRI scan can be performed to determine the thickness and its relationship with possible underlying diseases. In the imaging, the thickness will be imaged as a dark line and is termed the endometrial stripe.
Causes for Thin Endometrial Lining
Age:
With an increase in age, the endometrium takes the impact of an effective reduction especially during pre-menopause.
Infection:
The other important cause, sometimes inflammation or infection can damage the endometrial lining and lead to an injury of the uterus.
Hormonal Imbalance:
Hormones such as progesterone and estrogen have a direct effect on the endometrial lining. Any changes in hormones can cause a thin endometrium.
Past Surgeries:
Surgeries like curettage and dilation in the uterus can cause scarring or thinning of the uterus.
Other conditions:
- Endometriosis
- Endometrial Hyperplasia
- PCOS
Abnormal Endometrium Signs and Symptoms
- Menstrual bleeding that is heavier than normal.
- Longer-than-average menstrual bleeding.
- Bleeding that occurs in between periods.
- Menstrual cycles shorter than 21 days.
- Menstrual-type bleeding after they have ceased to have periods due to menopause.
- Anemia in some cases, due to heavy menstrual bleeding.
Ways To Increase Endometrium Size For Pregnancy
Healthy Diet
- Eating antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables helps to support cellular health.
- Omega-3-rich foods such as fish, nuts, and seeds, known for their anti-inflammatory functions, are beneficial for reproductive health.
- Nutrients like vitamin D, folic acid, and iron from leafy greens, whole grains, and lean meat may assist in increasing endometrium size.Â
Lifestyle Changes
- Regular and moderate exercise improves blood circulation, which is good for the uterus.
- Stress influences hormone levels; even though you can indulge in yoga, meditation, or mindfulness, they can help to relieve a lot of stress.Â
- Quitting Smoking and drinking habits can help avoid worsening of reproductive health and can help achieve better outcomes.
Medications
- Hormonal therapy involving progesterone and estrogen has a profound effect on endometrial lining thickening.Â
- Blood flow-enhancing drugs aim to increase blood flow to the uterus while facilitating the thickening of the lining.
Supplements
Supplements like Vitamin E can potentially be helpful in endometrial growth. It is ideal to discuss with your doctor before starting on any such supplements.
When to Consult A Doctor?
If there are any unusual signs during your menses, contacting a physician is highly suggested. Medical attention is warranted for any notice of the following:
- Excessive menstrual flow
- Spotting in between periods
- Bleeding or spotting in the vagina post-menopause
- Irregular or short-duration blood flow
Lastly, unexplained pelvic pain, an uncomfortable feeling of heaviness without consuming much, or bloating could be possibilities of an underlying condition, such as endometrial cancer, that would need to be considered for medical attention.Â
Conclusion
The endometrial lining is a vital aspect of pregnancy that helps in implantation within the endometrium. The measurement of this thickness has benefited many women with miscarriage history or who have had difficulty conceiving in bringing about a complete and healthful pregnancy.
The thickness of this lining can be enhanced through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and medication. But what matters most is an individualized assessment and guidance from a professional for the best possible result in embryo transfer.
Frequently asked questions:
The ideal size of an endometrium for conceiving is 7 to 14 mm, during the time of ovulation. This is suitable both for natural conception and IVF treatment. If the lining it too thin or thick, implantation may not be possible.
Yes, endometrial size of 7mm is considered as the minimum thickness for successful pregnancy. Although this is minimal, pregnancy is still possible with medical advice and treatment guidelines.
Ultrasound is the most commonly used method for measuring endometrium size. In case of difficulties, an MRI scan will be done for measuring thickness. This is done, especially when a person reportedly has abnormal vaginal bleeding, and pains in the pelvic area.
