Let’s Talk About Endometriosis: What is it and how does it affect our bodies?

Have you ever heard of Endometriosis?

It’s more common than you might think. Although its symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for regular period cramps, listening to your body is important. Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age and often goes unnoticed for years. How can you tell if you might have it? If your periods are so painful they disrupt your daily life, or if you experience pain during sex or while going to the bathroom, it might be time to see a specialist. Other signs include heavy bleeding or infertility.

So, what exactly is endometriosis? It’s a condition where the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus (the endometrium) grows outside of it, affecting organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or intestines. This misplaced tissue still functions as it would inside the uterus—thickening, breaking down, and bleeding during your menstrual cycle. But because it has nowhere to go, it builds up, which can lead to inflammation, scarring, and adhesions (scar tissue that binds organs together). While the exact cause is still unclear, certain factors can worsen it, like high estrogen levels or certain inflammatory foods. Things like excessive consumption of processed foods or chronic stress may also play a role.

How does Endometriosis work?

• Abnormal Tissue Growth: Endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, responding to menstrual cycle hormones, causing internal bleeding, inflammation, and pain.
• Chronic Inflammation: The trapped blood and constant irritation lead to inflammation, and over time, adhesions can form, sticking organs together.
• Pain and Symptoms: Pain is the most common symptom, especially during menstruation, but it can also cause chronic pelvic pain, discomfort during sex, digestive problems, and, in some cases, infertility.

What are some possible causes of Endometriosis?

• Genetics: There’s a hereditary component. If your mother or sister has been diagnosed, your chances are higher.
• High Estrogen Levels: Estrogen stimulates the growth of endometrial tissue. Women with endometriosis often have elevated estrogen levels or increased sensitivity to it.
• Retrograde Menstruation: One of the most common theories, this occurs when menstrual blood flows backward through the fallopian tubes, carrying endometrial cells to other organs.
• Weakened Immune System: In some women, the immune system fails to eliminate endometrial cells growing outside the uterus, allowing them to continue developing.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to toxins like dioxins and chemicals found in plastics could disrupt the hormonal system and contribute to the development of endometriosis.
• Early Menstruation: Women who started their period at a young age or have short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days) may be at a higher risk.

While the exact cause is still not entirely clear, it’s known that hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors play a significant role in the development of this condition. Endometriosis can affect women of all ages, and it often takes several years to diagnose due to the vague nature of the symptoms.

5 Tips to Ease Endometriosis Symptoms:

1. Gentle and regular exercise: Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can help reduce pain by boosting endorphin release and improving circulation
2. Reduce stress: Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness can lower cortisol levels, which may worsen inflammation.
3. Stick to an anti-inflammatory diet: In addition to anti-inflammatory foods, avoiding sugar, processed foods, and dairy can make a noticeable difference in your symptoms.
4. Apply heat: Heating pads or hot water bottles can be helpful in relieving pelvic pain during more intense days.
5. Ask about hormonal options: There are hormonal treatments that can help manage symptoms and control endometrial tissue growth. Your gynecologist can guide you on the best option for you.

How does Endometriosis affect fertility?

We know it can be one of the biggest concerns. Endometriosis can make getting pregnant more difficult in some cases, but it doesn’t mean it’s impossible. There are many options available, from hormonal treatments to assisted reproductive techniques like IVF.

If you’ve been diagnosed, don’t feel alone! Many women with endometriosis live full, healthy lives and have even managed to conceive against all odds.

Start by taking care of yourself!

Small changes like maintaining a balanced diet, gentle exercise, and relaxing with practices like yoga or meditation can improve your quality of life. Of course, every case is different, so it’s essential to follow the treatment your doctor recommends.

Remember, understanding what’s happening in your body is the first step to feeling more confident and making informed decisions. If you have questions or just want to know more about this condition, don’t hesitate to reach out! At Nascere, our specialists are ready to help you. We look forward to seeing you in consultation!