Podcast Episode #241
Understanding Endometriosis, Pelvic pain and Fertility problems
Pelvic pain can sometimes be a misunderstood symptom of endometriosis—especially for women trying to conceive. In today’s episode, we’re joined by Dr Mei Cheah, a fertility specialist, obstetrician, gynaecologist, and laparoscopic surgeon who specialises in the management of endometriosis and fertility surgery.
Together, we dive into endometriosis, how it can affect fertility, and most importantly—what can actually help. From surgical options to pelvic physiotherapy, we explore the evidence-based approaches that support pain relief, improved function, and fertility success.
Whether you’ve been diagnosed with endometriosis, are navigating unexplained pelvic pain, or are on a fertility journey and feeling unsure where to turn—this episode is full of compassionate, expert insight.
What is covered in this episode:
- What endometriosis actually is—and why pelvic pain is such a common symptom
- How endometriosis can affect your fertility and what red flags to watch for
- The latest treatment options: from surgery to lifestyle to physio
- When to consider seeing a fertility specialist
- The role of pelvic health physiotherapy in managing pain, improving sexual comfort, and supporting the body for conception
- The emotional toll of pelvic pain and fertility challenges—and how to build a multidisciplinary team around yo
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In this article you'll find tips to:
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Understand the signs and symptoms of endometriosis beyond period pain
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Recognise when pelvic pain might signal something more serious
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Learn how endometriosis may impact fertility and conception
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Know what questions to ask your doctor or specialist
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Discover what treatment options are available if you’re trying to conceive
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Explore the role of pelvic floor physiotherapy in managing pain
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Decide when to seek fertility support if you’ve been diagnosed with endometriosis
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Learn how to advocate for yourself in medical settings
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Get clarity on the emotional and physical impact of chronic pelvic pain
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Understand the importance of building a supportive care team
When it comes to navigating painful periods, pelvic discomfort, or fertility struggles, the journey can often feel overwhelming and lonely. But you’re not alone—and more importantly, what you’re feeling is valid.
In this podcast episode featuring Dr Mei Cheah, a gynaecologist, fertility specialist, and endometriosis warrior herself, we explore how endometriosis can affect fertility, what treatment options exist, and when to seek professional support. Dr Mei brings both clinical expertise and lived experience, offering compassionate and empowering insights for anyone dealing with endometriosis and fertility problems.
I have painful periods and pelvic pain throughout the month – could this be endometriosis?
Painful periods are common, but not all period pain is considered “normal.” If you’re noticing persistent pelvic pain, pain during bowel movements, urination, or intercourse—even outside your period—it might be more than just hormonal cramps. These could be signs of endometriosis.
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it—on the ovaries, bowels, bladder, or other pelvic structures. This tissue behaves just like the lining of the uterus, thickening and bleeding with each menstrual cycle, but it has nowhere to go. The result? Inflammation, pain, and in some cases, scarring or adhesions.
Listening to your body is key. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s important to seek professional advice early on—especially if you’re planning a family in the future.
How does endometriosis impact chances of falling pregnant?
Here’s the good news: not everyone with endometriosis will experience fertility problems.
That said, endometriosis can affect fertility in several ways, especially when it causes distortion of the pelvic anatomy—commonly known as a “frozen pelvis.” This is where adhesions can cause the ovaries, uterus, and bowels to stick together, making it harder for eggs to travel, be fertilised, or implant in the womb.
In other cases, the symptoms may be subtle or even absent, and a woman might only discover she has endometriosis when she’s struggling to conceive.
So, if you’ve been trying for a while and things aren’t progressing, it’s worth getting assessed. The impact of endometriosis on fertility often depends on the location and severity of the condition.
Best options for treatment for managing endometriosis-related pelvic pain while trying to conceive
This is where it gets a bit tricky. Many of the standard treatments for managing endometriosis—like hormonal therapies—aren’t suitable if you’re trying to get pregnant. That’s why it’s so important to have an open discussion with a healthcare provider about your goals.
If you’re actively trying to conceive, here are some options to consider:
- Surgical treatment (laparoscopy) to remove endometriosis can improve fertility in some cases.
- Specialised ultrasounds (like deep infiltrating endometriosis scans) can help diagnose the condition without immediate need for surgery.
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help manage pain linked to muscle tension or overactivity, improving comfort and quality of life during your fertility journey.
- Lifestyle changes such as tailored exercise, stress management, and improved sleep can also have a significant impact on symptom management.
It’s important to note that pelvic pain and fertility planning don’t always align—what helps with one may not support the other. That’s why a personalised, multi-disciplinary plan is key.
If someone has been diagnosed with endometriosis, when should they consider fertility support?
This depends on your life stage and personal goals.
If you’re not ready to have children now, but may want to in the future, it might be worth speaking with a fertility specialist about egg freezing or future planning.
If you’ve already been diagnosed with endometriosis and are ready to start a family, fertility support may include:
- Surgical intervention to improve pelvic environment
- Specialist-guided conception support
- Exploring whether assisted reproductive techniques (like IVF) might be necessary
And if you’re unsure? That’s okay. Starting the conversation early with a fertility specialist can help you make informed choices when the time is right.
Endometriosis and fertility problems are deeply interconnected—but they don’t have to define your future.
One of the most powerful messages shared by Dr Mei is this: advocate for yourself. If you feel unheard or unsure, seek out a healthcare team that listens, validates, and partners with you through your journey.
It’s never too early (or too late) to start building your support team.
** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
Links
www.instagram.com/createfertility_aus
www.instagram.com/createhealth_aus
www.create-health.com.au
www.createfertility.com.au
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