by Cathy Wilson

Created on: March 01, 2011

According to endometriosis.org, 'between one and ten women have endometriosis during their reproductive year's.  Endometriosis is when cells grow abnormally outside of the uterus, similar to those that form inside the uterus.  

During menstruation, these 'endometrial cells' are shed each month.  Implants (abnormal endometrial cells) attach themselves to the tissue outside the uterus.  These implants are usually found on the fallopian tubes, ovaries, outer surfaces of the intestines or uterus and on the lining of the pelvic cavity.

Symptoms

Pelvic pain is the most common symptom.  The pain usually aligns with the menstrual cycle.  For a lot of women the pain is so severe that they are not able to function normally.

Another symptom is painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia) or cramping.  The pain occurs with bowel movements and urination too.

Other symptoms are diarrhea or constipation, lower back pain, lower abdominal pain, blood in urine or heavy menstruation.  

In rare cases, symptoms may include chest pain or coughing blood due to endometriosis in the lungs or seizures from endometriosis in the brain.

Causes

Unfortunately the cause is unknown, although many theories have been developed.  

The  'transtubal migration theory,' suggests during menstruation tissue backs up through the fallopian tubes and implants in or near the abdomen and grows.  

Others believe the lymphatic system transports the endometrial tissue from the uterus to other parts of the body.

Genealogists propose some people carry the gene and may have predisposing factors to endometriosis.  

Another theory suggests that pieces of tissue from when a woman was an embryo, may develop later into endometriosis. 

Having 'retrograde menstrual flow,' means some of a woman's flow ends up on the pelvis.

There is also a link to estrogen, because it promotes growth of these cells, suggesting there may be  a chemical imbalance.  

Treatment

Depending on severity, endometriosis can be treated with lifestyle changes or medical intervention.

Endometriosis has been linked to toxic chemicals, so eating a well-balanced diet can help.  Experts suggests eliminating red meats will help because of the toxins in animal fat.    Others say the reduction of dairy may help reduce pain, because dairy products increase prostoglandins, which may cause pain.

Exercise can also eliminate or at least help relieve the pain.  

Oddly enough most pregnant women report a temporary relief of pain while pregnant.  Now I'm not suggesting you run out and try and get pregnant to help with your endometriosis.  Just letting you know that if you were contemplating pregnancy, it may end up being a bonus feature.

Endometriosis is very manageable and can interfere with getting pregnant if not treated.  So make sure you see your doctor immediately if you have symptoms, better sooner than later when dealing with your well-being.  Wouldn't you agree?

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