Endometriosis
is a potentially severe condition that involves improper development of the
lining of the uterus in women. In this condition, the uterus lining actually
develops on the outside of the uterus. This abnormal growth is not just a
nuisance – it can be potentially dangerous and even deadly if not treated
properly.
This
condition is more common then most people may in fact believe. According to
researchers and statisticians, approximately two to ten percent of women
develop endometriosis during their lifetime. Endometriosis normally appears in
women between the ages of 20 and 30; however, there are exceptions to this rule
and some women develop the condition earlier or later in life.
When the tissue
that makes up the lining of the uterus develops outside the uterus it can lead
to significant health problems. First of all, due to the fact that tissue is
pushing into areas of the body that are not set up to handle this sort of
tissue growth, it can cause extensive pain and discomfort. Internal bleeding
and damage to other organs is also possible due to this excessive tissue
growth. Furthermore, many women who develop endometriosis go onto experience
fertility problems – with an unfortunate few who will never be able to
conceive, even with the focused help of reproductive specialists.
Like many
other significant health problems, a true cause of endometriosis has yet to be
discovered. Scientists have not as of yet been able to pinpoint exact the exact
cause of endometriosis, although they have a number of theories. The links
between these theories and hard biology are not fully understood, however,
scientists hope to one day unravel the mystery behind endometriosis
One of the
theories involves the over production of the female hormone estrogen. Another
theory involves erratic stem cell production in the wall of the uterus.
While medical
professionals rabidly discuss all theories it is thought also that there is a
genetic link. Close female relatives of those stricken with endometriosis are
more likely to develop the disorder.
As stated
earlier, the most common symptom is pain during menstruation. Other symptoms
include cramping, lower back pain, nausea, fatigue, infertility, painful sexual
intercourse, painful bowel movements, and the development of cysts.
Endometriosis
occurs in four distinct stages. The first stage is generally the most benign –
the condition is just beginning in the ovaries. The second stage is mild and in
addition to appearing in the ovaries, it appears on the pelvic lining. The
third stage – or moderate stage is the steppingstone to the fourth and final
stage where significant bodily injury is possible.
Endometriosis is not something to be taken lightly. If you
suspect that you may have endometriosis you should immediately seek medical advice
for a diagnosis. While there is no cure for the disease, it is possible to
treat it through a variety of treatments.
To learn more about how to treat endometriosis please visit
the following site: Treating Your Endometriosis.
