Endometriosis is a painful disease that affects between 3 and 18 percent of women in the U.S., 1 million in Canada and millions more all over the world. This disease happens when tissue in the uterus, called the endometrium, is found outside of the uterus, in the ovaries or fallopian tubes. Other places the tissue can end up are the vagina, vulva, bladder and bowls. They are found in the lungs, arm, thigh and other locations but not as commonly.
The tissue that is misplaced develops into tumors and lesions that react to the monthly menstrual cycle the same way that the uterine lining does. The tissue builds up then breaks down and sheds. During a women’s period, the uterine wall builds up and then sheds and leaves the body through the uterus and out of the vagina. When the misplaced tissue tries to do this, it does not have a real way to leave the body. This is what leads to the internal blessing, a lot of pain, inflammation, infertility, bowl problems and scar tissues that can accompany Endometriosis. All of these problems can change a women’s life forever.
Endometriosis Symptoms
There are many symptoms that tell a woman that they have this disease. Endometriosis symptoms can include pain during sex, pain before and after period, infertility, constant fatigue, painful urination during periods, painful bowel movements during a period and other stomach upsets.
The true reason for the development of Endometriosis is unknown. One theory is that the menstrual blood backs up during the period and goes into the fallopian tubes and grows in the abdomen. Other theories suggest that it is a genetic disorder that has been passed down through families. None of the theories have seen to work out completely though.
Causes of Endometriosis
Some scientists think that tissue from when a woman was an embryo can settle in and form endometriosis tissue. A lot of experts believe that all women experience a back up in menstrual blood and that problems in the immune system and hormone problems cause the blood to form into harmful tissue.
The Endometriosis Association has done a lot of research to find out why this develops and they still do not know why. However, they did find a significant link between dioxin exposure and Endometriosis. Dioxin is a chemical that is a byproduct of pesticide manufacturing. Women who have been exposed to this have a much higher rate of getting Endometriosis.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Veronica Davis - Veronica Davis is a full time freelance writer working from home. She fills her days researching, and writing original, quality content. ...
