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Mysteries outside the womb: How does retrograde menstruation trigger endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a disease that affects many women and is characterized by the growth of cells like the lining of the uterus outside the uterus. This condition is not limited to humans, but also occurs in certain menstruating mammals. These abnormal cells typically appear in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, peritoneum, and in areas such as the intestines, bladder, and diaphragm. Common symptoms include pelvic pain, heavy and painful periods, painful bowel movements, painful urination, painful intercourse, and infertility. According to data, almost half of patients will face chronic pelvic pain, and about 70% of patients will feel pain during menstruation. Therefore, understanding how menstrual reflux contributes to the development of endometriosis will help us gain a deeper understanding of this condition.
The cause of endometriosis is closely related to the increase in the female hormone estrogen. The stimulation of estrogen can lead to aggravation of inflammatory symptoms.
The root causes of endometriosis
The main cause of endometriosis is exposure to excess estrogen and sensitivity of its receptors. The increase in estrogen induces an immune response that exacerbates the development of the condition. At the same time, studies have found that the menstrual reflux theory is one of the main theories to explain the formation process of endometriosis. The theory is that during menstruation, some endometrial material in the uterus may flow backward into the abdominal cavity, enter the pelvic cavity through the fallopian tube and adhere to the peritoneum, thereby causing endometriosis.
Symptoms and effects
One of the main symptoms of endometriosis is persistent pelvic pain. The pain can range in severity from a mild cramping to a sharp stabbing pain, and may spread to the lower back and legs. Research shows that the degree of pain is not directly related to the extent of endometriosis, and some patients may not experience pain even if they have extensive endometriosis. Others may only have mild lesions but experience severe pain.
According to surveys, about one-third of infertile patients have endometriosis, and the harm of this disease has caused a significant decrease in the quality of life of many women.
Diagnosing problems
Diagnosing endometriosis usually requires clinical symptoms and medical imaging, but the most reliable method is laparoscopy and biopsy. Because many of the symptoms associated with endometriosis are similar to those of other diseases, the diagnosis process can take several years. Patients need to visit an average of seven doctors, with an average delay of approximately 6.7 years before receiving a correct diagnosis. This also makes the diagnosis of endometriosis extremely inefficient.
Social and psychological impact
Endometriosis not only affects physical health, but also has a profound impact on patients' mental health. Many women report frequent feelings of anxiety and depression due to ongoing pain and uncertainty. "Endometriosis is associated with depression and anxiety disorders, especially in patients who suffer from pelvic pain." These mental health problems may stem in part from misunderstandings of the condition and sociocultural neglect of women's health.
Treatment methods
While there is currently no cure for endometriosis, different treatment options exist to relieve symptoms. These may include painkillers, hormonal treatments, or surgery. Common pain relievers are usually nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen. Continuous use of the active ingredient in birth control pills or placement of an intrauterine device containing a progestin may also be effective. For patients with infertility, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH agonist) may improve the ability to conceive.
Environmental factors and genetics
Current research shows that endometriosis has a genetic component and is influenced by environmental factors that cannot be ignored. For example, long-term exposure to environmental toxins such as estrogen is considered to be one of the factors that increase the risk of disease. Reports have shown that blood relatives with endometriosis may be up to six times more likely to develop the disease.
Thinking about the future
Research on endometriosis continues, and finding more effective treatments and early diagnosis methods is a top priority in the current medical community. As female friends, we should pay more attention to health, seek medical treatment in time and seek professional help. So, have you ever seriously reflected on how to identify the early symptoms of endometriosis in your life so that you can take responsibility for your own health?
