Endometriosis Resource Center - All Articles

Endometriosis - All Articles

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It’s often a painful condition, especially during menstruation, and it can affect fertility as well. Symptoms can include heavy and painful menstrual periods, discomfort during or after sex, and pain with urination or bowel movements. While there’s no cure for endometriosis, medication can help manage pain symptoms and hormone therapy can help slow its progression. Laparoscopic surgery can also help treat endometriosis, reducing pain and improving fertility.

FAQ

What causes endometriosis?

The primary cause of endometriosis is unknown, and the condition cannot be prevented. Health experts suggest genetics, excess or dysregulated estrogen, a retrograde menstrual flow, and low prenatal testosterone levels could all be contributing factors to endometriosis.

Weight gain isn’t recognized as a symptom of endometriosis. However, endometriosis can cause heavy menstrual periods that lead to bloating, fluid retention, and temporary weight fluctuations.

You can get pregnant with endometriosis, but the condition may make it more difficult to conceive. If untreated, endometriosis can cause infertility when inflammation damages your eggs or scar tissue blocks your fallopian tubes.

Endometriosis doesn’t typically become cancerous. Research suggests ovarian cancer and breast cancer may be more common among women with endometriosis, but the potential link between the conditions remains unclear.

Yes, you can live a normal life with endometriosis when equipped with the proper treatment and support. Many women experience significant symptom relief from diet and lifestyle changes, pain medication, hormone therapy, surgical intervention, and any combination thereof.

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Resources
  1. Endometriosis. Mayo Clinic. August 30, 2024.

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