Thin Endometrium - What Should You Know?

Every women's uterus consists three layers - inner, middle and outer layers. The innermost layer of the uterus is known as endometrium. A normal endometrial lining is thick enough to enable eggs to get fertilized, but when this lining becoomes  thin, it creates problem for women to achieve pregnancy.

What are the causes of a thin endometrium?

Following are the causes for thin endometrium in some women -

• Reduced oestrogen levels - Oestrogen is one of the primary sex hormones in women. Abnormally low levels of this hormone can lead to the thinning out of the endometrial lining of the uterus. A blood test reveals the levels of oestrogen in the body. If levels are low, the doctor may recommend oestrogen supplements.
• Formation of scar - Another valid reason for thin endometrial lining is a history of uterine infection. Such infections in the past can lead to the formation of scar tissue on the lining of the endometrium, thus leading to the thin nature of the lining. In such a case, doctors will perform a surgery to remove the scar tissue from the endometrium, thus allowing it to return to its normal state.
• Reduced blood flow - In rare cases, the endometrial lining can be affected due to decreased flow of the blood to the area. An ultrasound will reveal such a disorder. However, treating this is difficult. Research suggests that treatment with high doses of vitamin E and L-arginine may work in some cases, but more study is required on the same.
• Uterine tumours - Benign tumours in the uterus, known as fibroids, can often remain undetected for several years, as they are quite small in nature. However, while trying to get pregnant, the presence of fibroids in the uterus may interfere with plans. Under such a condition, the doctor will recommend undergoing surgery to get these tumours removed from the area.
• Endometritis - Endometritis is an infection of the uterus, which causes it to become inflamed. Under such a condition, achieving pregnancy can be quite difficult. Even though the infection is not life-threatening, you should consider undergoing treatment as soon as possible. Treatment with antibiotics and plenty of rest resolves the issue.
• Uterine adhesions - It can also result in the endometrium.
• Asherman syndrome - Endometrium is often caused due to this syndrome.
• Tuberculosis - It can also be the possible cause of endometrium.

Thus, the treatment for thin endometrium depends on its underlying cause. Therefore, consider undergoing tests to determine whether your endometrial lining is responsible for the failure to achieve pregnancy. The treatment of endometrium mostly includes the role of hysteroscopy and medicines and injections.