Studies have uncovered that up to 11% of women born between 1973 and 1978 were diagnosed with endometriosis by the ages of 40 to 44. With such a high prevalence, it’s important to know more about this disease to get an accurate and timely diagnosis. Another critical aspect of endometriosis is understanding why it occurs. Let’s discuss what we know so far about why endometriosis occurs; this information will help people know when to seek medical help and how to manage it.
What Is Endometriosis and What Are the Symptoms?
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to that lining the uterus (known as endometrial tissue) grows outside the uterus, in the pelvic area. This tissue causes scarring and bleeding, ultimately leading to the adhesion of organs in the pelvic area, which are supposed to be separate. The formation of this tissue can lead to painful sex, painful or heavy periods, reduced fertility, bleeding between periods, and chronic pelvic pain. When successful diagnosis and treatment are available for those affected by endometriosis, it becomes easier to cope with the symptoms.
Why Does Endometriosis Occur?
Knowing the reason for painful symptoms is just part of the fight against endometriosis. Getting treatment is the next step; however, understanding why endometriosis occurs to begin with may be key to prevention and better diagnosis. So far, due to a lack of research, no one quite knows what causes this disease. Researchers do have several theories, however.
Retrograde menstrual flow: many researchers believe that a retrograde menstrual flow may be linked to endometriosis. This means that some menstrual tissue flows back through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity. However, there may be other factors because nine in ten people have retrograde menstruation.
An immune system disorder: a problem with the immune system may affect the body’s ability to recognise endometrial tissue growing outside of the uterus in order to destroy it.
Genetics: it is more common in circumstances where endometriosis runs in the family.
Abdominal surgery: surgeries such as hysterectomies and Caesareans may result in the accidental movement of endometrial tissue, leading the cells to attach to the scar tissue.
Hormonal factors: hormones may lead to the cells which line the inner abdomen transforming into endometrial-like cells. In other instances, oestrogen may transform cells in the early stages of development into endometrial-like cells with the onset of puberty.
Lymphatic transportation: the lymphatic system may transport endometrial cells to other areas within the body, allowing them to grow and cause endometriosis.
The trouble with endometriosis is that until we have a better understanding of it, doctors are in the predicament of treating the symptoms rather than whatever may cause it. Doctors typically assist patients in the management of endometriosis through lifestyle changes, surgery, and medication. The first step to managing endometriosis, however, is obtaining a diagnosis. If you have or think you may have endometriosis and need medical assistance, get in touch with OMNI for high-quality, expert ENDOMETRIOSIS ULTRASOUND.