Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful disorder of the female reproductive system. It is a condition in which bits of the tissue similar to the lining of the Uterus (endometrium) grow in other parts of the body.

When you menstruate, the endometrial lining, also called endometrial tissue is discharged out of your body along with the menstrual flow. If you have endometriosis, the tissue from the lining of the Uterus also gets lodged outside your uterus, in other parts such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or your Pelvis.

Subsequently, when you have your periods, the displaced endometrial tissue that has implanted itself outside your uterus, also develops inflammation and bleeding just like the endometrial tissue inside your Uterus. It thickens, breaks down and bleeds every month as your Hormone levels rise and fall. Since there is no outlet for this accumulated blood, it is caught in there and causes irritation to the surrounding tissues leading to the growth of Cysts. Cysts, in turn, may result in scar tissue in your pelvic area. All this can be very painful, especially during your period.

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What causes endometriosis?

Nobody is certain as to what causes Endometriosis although many theories keep doing the rounds among the medical fraternity. Some of the common theories thought to cause the condition are:

• Theory 1: The menstrual blood containing endometrial Cells flows back through the fallopian tubes, gets trapped there and grows into Cysts.
• Theory 2: The blood carries endometrial Cells to other locations in the body.
• Theory 3: Endometriosis is a Genetic disorder and some women are prone to it.
• Theory 4: Poor immune response also may contribute to the development of Endometriosis.

All these are but speculations. The cause of Endometriosis remains uncertain. Research is still on to determine whether hormones and the Immune System play a role in this condition.

Who is at risk?

• Endometriosis mostly occurs in women who have not had children.
• In some women it can be caused due to Genetic abnormalities.
• Some women may be at increased risk because of certain prevailing health conditions that prevents the normal passage of menstrual flow. However this is very rare.
• It is also thought, but not certain, that infection and damage to Cells that line the Pelvis can lead to Endometriosis.

• Painful periods with pelvic pain, cramping, lower back and abdominal pain.
• Sharp pain deep in the Pelvis during sexual intercourse.
• Pelvic pain during Ovulation.
• Pain during bowel movements or urination.
• Excessive bleeding during or between periods.
• Infertility is an indicator since this can occur due to endometriosis

Preventing endometriosis

Since the causes of Endometriosis remain vague, prevention methods are yet to be developed. But it is been found that women who have had children are less likely to be affected than women who have not.

Complications of endometriosis

The major complication of Endometriosis is impaired fertility. However, women with mild to moderate Endometriosis can become pregnant and many women succeed in getting pregnant, although it may take them a little longer.

Treatment

Endometriosis is treatable. There are a number of medications which your doctor will recommend. Do not try to get pregnant when you are taking these medicines. On the other hand, the endometrial tissues that are trapped in the wrong places can also be removed surgically. If you have been finding it hard to get pregnant because of endometriosis, the surgical procedure can make it easier for you to get pregnant. Consult your doctor for the best treatment option.