Endometriosis etiology and pathogenesis

The etiology and pathogenesis of endometriosis have not yet been fully clarified, but it is mainly related to genetic factors, retrograde menstruation, immune abnormalities, and the combined effects of environment and hormones. The pathological characteristic of this disease is that endometrial tissue appears outside the uterine cavity, leading to inflammatory reactions, pain and infertility.

Genetic factors may play an important role in this disease. Studies have found that women whose mothers or sisters have endometriosis in their families have a significantly increased risk of developing the disease. Environmental factors include long-term exposure to harmful substances such as dioxins, which may interfere with the endocrine system, aggravate hormonal disorders, and increase the risk of endometriosis. Retrograde menstruation is currently a hypothesis with a high support rate. Some menstrual blood and the endometrial tissue in it enter the pelvic cavity through the fallopian tubes and grow in the pelvic area. Abnormalities in the immune system may make it impossible for the body to effectively clear these endometrial tissues that have separated from the uterine cavity, allowing them to continue to survive in the body and cause chronic inflammatory responses. Imbalance in hormone levels is also closely related to this disease. Excessive estrogen will stimulate the growth of ectopic endometrial tissue, while insufficient progesterone cannot effectively inhibit its further spread.

Genetic factors may play an important role in this disease. Studies have found that women whose mothers or sisters have endometriosis in their families have a significantly increased risk of developing the disease. Environmental factors include long-term exposure to harmful substances such as dioxins, which may interfere with the endocrine system, aggravate hormonal disorders, and increase the risk of endometriosis. Retrograde menstruation is currently a hypothesis with a high support rate. Some menstrual blood and the endometrial tissue in it enter the pelvic cavity through the fallopian tubes and grow in the pelvic area. Abnormalities in the immune system may make it impossible for the body to effectively clear these endometrial tissues that have separated from the uterine cavity, allowing them to continue to survive in the body and cause chronic inflammatory responses. Imbalance in hormone levels is also closely related to this disease. Excessive estrogen will stimulate the growth of ectopic endometrial tissue, while insufficient progesterone cannot effectively inhibit its further spread.

Early screening and a healthy lifestyle are essential for the prevention and management of endometriosis. Regular gynecological examinations can help detect potential problems early, especially when there is severe menstrual pain, irregular bleeding or infertility, and you should seek medical attention for further diagnosis. The diet can appropriately increase the intake of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, because their anti-inflammatory effects can relieve symptoms; at the same time, avoid high-fat, high-refined sugar foods to reduce the risk of inflammation. Continuous moderate exercise, such as yoga or swimming, can also improve hormone balance in the body and enhance immune function, further helping to manage the condition. If endometriosis is diagnosed, early treatment includes drug control, such as GnRH agonists, birth control pills or progestins; severe patients may require surgical treatment, such as laparoscopic removal of lesions or hysterectomy.