Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful medical condition that occurs when the tissue lining the uterus, known as the endometrium, starts growing outside of the uterus. This tissue can attach to other pelvic organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or intestines, and in rare cases, may spread to other areas of the body.
During a typical menstrual cycle, the endometrium thickens in preparation for potential implantation of a fertilized egg. If pregnancy does not occur, it breaks down and is shed during menstrual bleeding. However, in individuals with endometriosis, the misplaced endometrial tissue also responds to hormonal changes, causing inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue.
Symptoms of endometriosis may include severe pelvic pain during menstruation, chronic pelvic pain throughout the menstrual cycle, pain during intercourse, infertility, and heavy or irregular menstrual periods. Some individuals with endometriosis may experience no symptoms at all, making it difficult to diagnose.
While the exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown, potential factors may include genetic predisposition, retrograde menstruation (when menstrual flow travels backward into the fallopian tubes and pelvic cavity), hormonal imbalances, and a weakened immune system.
Treatment for endometriosis depends on the severity of symptoms, the individual's age, and their desire to have children. Options may include pain medications, hormonal therapies, conservative surgery to remove the endometrial lesions, or in severe cases, a hysterectomy. However, it is important to note that endometriosis cannot be cured, and management focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for those affected.
