What is a Poor Endometrium?
A “poor endometrium” refers to an endometrial lining that is too thin, poorly vascularized, or inadequately developed to support a pregnancy. For successful embryo implantation, the endometrial thickness should ideally be between 7-14 mm during the implantation window. A poor endometrium is typically less than 7 mm, which can significantly reduce the chances of conception.
Causes of Poor Endometrium
Several factors can contribute to a thin or poor endometrial lining, including:
- Hormonal Imbalances: Insufficient production of estrogen or progesterone can prevent the endometrium from developing properly.
- Age: As women age, the endometrial lining may become thinner, especially after 40.
- Uterine Conditions: Conditions like Asherman’s syndrome (scar tissue in the uterus) or chronic endometritis (inflammation of the uterus) can negatively impact the endometrial lining.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, poor diet, and high stress levels can affect the quality of the endometrial lining.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as clomiphene citrate (Clomid), used in fertility treatments, can thin the endometrium.
- Medical Treatments: Prior surgeries, radiation, or chemotherapy can damage the endometrial lining.
Treatment Options
Treating a poor endometrium involves addressing the underlying causes and enhancing the endometrial environment. Common treatment approaches include:
- Hormone Therapy: Estrogen and progesterone supplements can help build and maintain a healthy endometrial lining.
- Lifestyle Changes: Improving diet, reducing stress, and avoiding smoking can positively impact endometrial health.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP involves injecting a concentration of the patient’s own platelets into the uterus to promote tissue regeneration and improve endometrial thickness.
- Stem Cell Therapy: Emerging treatments involve using stem cells to repair and rejuvenate the endometrial lining.
- Hysteroscopy: In cases where scarring or other uterine abnormalities are present, hysteroscopy can be used to remove adhesions or polyps, improving the endometrial environment.
When to Seek Help
If you have been trying to conceive for over a year without success, or if you have experienced multiple miscarriages, it may be time to consult a specialist. Our team at Jogal Women’s Hospital is here to provide personalized care and advanced treatments to help you achieve a healthy pregnancy.
