Causes Of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a disorder in which the endometrium, the tissue that normally resides in the uterus, grows outside of the uterus. The endometrial implant typically grows on the the outer walls of the uterus, the fallopian tubes, the ovaries, the intestines, or the tissue lining the pelvis. Rarely, the endometrial tissue spreads beyond the pelvic region. Despite being outside the uterus, the endometrial tissue behaves as it would normally, meaning that it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. Due to the abnormal state of its location, the endometrial tissue irritates the surrounding tissue resulting in scar tissue and adhesions. As the endometrial tissue thickens and breaks down, some women may experience pain especially …show more content…
Retrograde menstruation is one possible cause where the menstrual blood flows back into the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity instead of its normal route out of the body. As the blood flows back into the body, it distributes the endometrial cells contained in the menstrual blood to other organs. Another possible cause is embryonic cell growth where the embryonic cells that line the abdomen and pelvic cavities become endometrial tissue and thus, cause endometriosis to develop. The Mayo Clinic authors also describe that after a surgery, such as a hysterectomy or Caesarean section, the endometrial cells from the uterus are displaced as they attach to the surgical incision. It is also possible that the blood vessels or lymph vessels may transport endometrial cells from the uterus to other organs. Once outside the uterus, the immune system may not recognize endometrial tissue that is growing abnormally and may fail to destroy it. Several factors increase the risk of developing endometriosis including never giving birth; one or more relatives who have endometriosis; any medical condition that impedes the normal passage of menstrual flow out of the body; history of pelvic infection; and any uterine abnormalities. Endometriosis usually develops years after the onset of menstruation. During pregnancy and menopause, endometriosis signs and symptoms may cease …show more content…
The struggle to find a diagnosis has been nearly as big a struggle as the condition itself. For about 4 years, I had inexplicable pelvic pain, menorrhagia, and menometrorrhagia. Over the years, I had had ultrasounds, an endoscopy, and various hormonal treatments which had unwanted side effects. One of my doctors kept telling me that it was possible that it was psychosomatic. Finally, a laparoscopy confirmed a diagnosis of endometriosis. While there is no cure and I continue to have pain, I feel better prepared in knowing why I am in pain and knowing possible