Understanding Endometriosis: Causes and Symptoms

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Endometriosis What is endometriosis? Endometriosis occurs when endometrial cells grow in areas outside of the endometrium, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other pelvic regions. This ectopic endometrial tissue promotes an inflammatory response that produces the clinical features of the disease. The condition likely occurs due to various factors such as abnormal immunity, alerted hormone signaling, and genetics. Women are normally affected during their childbearing years and develop pain in the pelvic region, menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), and pain with sexual intercourse (dyspareunia). Other features include infertility and an ovarian mass, which is typically felt on physical examination. Individuals may experiences gastrointestinal or urinary symptoms if ectopic endometrial tissue is next to the bladder or rectum. …show more content…

It is associated with a higher risk of pregnancy complications and certain ovarian cancers. Due to the importance of this condition, it is critical that patients understand its causes, symptoms, and treatment. By the end of this article, you will have the answers to these essential questions: • What causes endometriosis? • How common is endometriosis? • What are the symptoms and signs of endometriosis? • How is endometriosis diagnosed? • How is endometriosis treated? What causes endometriosis? Endometriosis appears to be caused by multiple factors such as the implantation of endometrial tissue outside of the endometrium, immune dysfunction, abnormal hormonal signaling, and genetics. Major risk factors for endometriosis include: • Nulliparity – having never given birth • Early menarche • Late menopause • Shorter menstrual cycles Women with multiple births, those who breast feed, and those with late menarche are at reduced risk of developing endometriosis. How common is

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