Endometriosis

Possible Causes of Endometriosis
The cause of endometriosis is not known. Some experts believe that menstrual fluid backs up into the fallopian tube and drops into the peritoneal cavity where the cells implant and grow. Others believe the endometrial cells spread through the blood and lymphatic channels. Other possible causes include heredity, excess estrogen and exposure to environmental polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and dioxin. It is believed that vulnerability to endometriosis may run in families.

Possible Symptoms of Endometriosis
The symptoms of endometriosis include pelvic pain, infertility, blood in the stool and blood following intercourse. These symptoms vary widely from woman to woman. Some experience little to no pain, while others suffer excruciating pain in the pelvic region. Severity of pain is usually tied to the size and location of the lesions, which can continue to develop and seed new growths. Lesions may attach to multiple organs, pulling them together and causing even more pain, especially during pregnancy. Cysts may form on the ovaries which contain oxidized (decomposed) blood. As these cysts rupture they cause excruciating pain. In most cases, pain begins just prior to menstruation and abates after menstrual flow begins. Some women experience pain continuously with no ties to the menstrual cycle.

Most women who have Endometriosis have never been pregnant, and as many as 40 percent of women with infertility problems have endometriosis. Many of these women do not seek medical attention because their symptoms are mistaken for normal menstrual discomfort. Many women who develop endometriosis have a greater history of yeast infections, hay fever, eczema, and food sensitivities.

Endometrial growths are usually benign (not cancerous), yet it is believed that women with endometriosis are at greater risk of developing breast cancer, melanoma, lymphoma and ovarian cancer.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for Endometriosis
There is no way to prevent endometriosis, but home treatment can ease the pain of the disease. Women who suffer from endometriosis are advised to apply a heating pad to the lower abdominal area to relieve pain and increase circulation during painful periods. Exercise regularly and use relaxation techniques to lower stress. Sometimes sexual activity can help ease the pain, but in some cases, intercourse can make symptoms worse.