What causes endometriosis?

The occurrence of endometriosis may be related to multiple causes, including genetic factors, environmental influences, physiological abnormalities, surgical trauma, and hormonal imbalance. Each factor may act alone or together to cause the occurrence of the disease.

1. Genetic factors: If a direct relative in the family, such as a mother or sister, has had endometriosis, the risk of a female individual suffering from the disease will be significantly increased. This indicates that the disease may have a certain genetic susceptibility. Some studies have found that genes related to endometriosis may affect the proliferation ability of the endometrium or its ability to adapt to external pressure.

2 Environmental factors: Long-term exposure to certain chemicals in the environment, such as dioxins and phthalates, may interfere with estrogen levels, leading to hormone imbalance and inducing endometriosis. Smoking and excessive intake of high-fat foods may also increase the risk.

3 Physiological abnormalities: An important pathological mechanism of endometriosis is retrograde menstruation, that is, during menstruation, part of the endometrial tissue flows back through the fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity with the menstrual blood, and implants and grows in abnormal locations. Abnormal immune system may aggravate this process, making it impossible for the body to clear these ectopic tissues, thus forming lesions.

4 Surgical trauma: Cesarean section or other gynecological surgery may cause endometrial cells to be carried to the tissue outside the uterus, thus becoming lesions. For example, a history of intrauterine surgery in the past may cause endometrial cells to adhere to the incision area and form ectopic lesions.

5. Hormone imbalance and other diseases: Excessive estrogen levels can stimulate the excessive growth of endometrial tissue and may also lead to endometriosis. Other endocrine disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome may also indirectly induce or aggravate the condition.

For the prevention and treatment of endometriosis, first of all, regular gynecological examinations are required, especially for those with a family history or obvious symptoms. Reasonable arrangements should be made for life and diet, reducing the intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods, and avoiding contact with harmful chemicals. In terms of medication, estrogen-progesterone balancing drugs, contraceptives, etc. can be selected under the guidance of professional doctors to control the condition. For severe cases, laparoscopic surgery to remove the lesions or surgical treatment can be considered.

It is very important to recognize and pay attention to endometriosis. If women show symptoms such as heavy menstrual flow, aggravated dysmenorrhea, unexplained infertility, etc., they should seek medical attention as soon as possible, and take scientific intervention measures after a clear diagnosis through ultrasound or laparoscopy to avoid worsening of the disease and affecting the quality of life.