Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological disorders. While it is more common for women in their 20s and 30s to have the disease, endometriosis can affect women at any time during their childbearing years. In fact, it is estimated that 5.5 million women in North America are affected by endometriosis. What does this mean to you? It means you are not alone.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when endometrial tissue, the tissue that lines the uterus and is shed during menstruation, grows outside of the uterus—on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, ligaments supporting the uterus, and other areas in the pelvic cavity. Endometriosis can also appear in a woman's bladder, bowel, vagina, or other places in her body.

Like the lining of the uterus, these areas of endometrial tissue respond to the hormones of the menstrual cycle—they build up tissue each month, then break down and bleed during menstruation. But unlike the uterus lining, when these endometrial implants (also called growths or lesions) outside the uterus bleed, they can irritate a woman's body.

What causes endometriosis?

Despite continued medical research and investigation, the exact cause of endometriosis is unclear. But, there are several theories, including:

The Retrograde Menstruation Theory

This is the most widely accepted theory for the cause of endometriosis. During "retrograde menstruation," a woman's menstrual flow backs up through her fallopian tubes, implants in her abdomen, and grows. Some experts believe that all women experience retrograde menstruation, but that women with endometriosis may have either a hormonal or an immune system problem, and as a result, the implants are allowed to grow.

The Genetic Predisposition Theory

This theory suggests that endometriosis may be inherited—a woman who has female relatives with endometriosis may be more likely to develop the condition herself.

Other Theories

Another theory suggests that endometrial tissue is distributed from a woman's uterus to other parts of her body by the blood or the lymphatic system.

Yet another theory suggests that endometriosis is caused by coelemic metaplasia, or cells transforming into endometrial cells, perhaps after stimulation by menstrual blood.

What problems are caused by endometriosis?

71 to 87% of women studied with chronic pelvic pain were found to have endometriosis. Scar tissue buildup is thought to be a cause of chronic pelvic pain.

A woman may experience other symptoms including painful menstruation and pain during sexual intercourse.

Among infertile women, about 30 to 45% have endometriosis.

Please see below for important information on Lupron Depot^®, including side effects.

*Norethindrone acetate 5mg daily