Endometriosis is a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Characterized by the abnormal growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, endometriosis can lead to chronic pelvic pain, menstrual irregularities, and even infertility. Despite its prevalence, many women struggle for years before receiving an accurate diagnosis.
According to Dr. Minoos Hosseinzadeh, founder and medical director of Fertility Institute of San Diego, “Endometriosis is more than just painful periods; it is a progressive disease that can significantly impact a woman’s reproductive health. Diagnosis and proper management are crucial in preserving fertility and enhancing quality of life.”
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the endometrial lining grows outside the uterus. These endometrial-like implants can develop on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic peritoneum, and even in distant organs such as the bladder or intestines. Unlike normal endometrial tissue, which sheds during menstruation, these implants have no way to exit the body, leading to inflammation, scarring, and adhesions.
Common Locations of Endometriosis Lesions:
- Ovaries
- Fallopian tubes
- Outer surface of the uterus
- Pelvic peritoneum
- Bowel or bladder
- Rectovaginal septum
Symptoms of Endometriosis
The symptoms of endometriosis vary from person to person, with some women experiencing severe pain while others may have no symptoms at all.
Most Common Symptoms:
- Chronic pelvic pain that worsens before and during menstruation
- Severe cramping during periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Pain during or after intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Painful bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation
- Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
Dr. Hosseinzadeh emphasizes, “Many women normalize their pain, assuming that severe cramps are just part of being a woman. If your periods interfere with your daily life, it’s important to seek medical evaluation.”
Causes and Risk Factors of Endometriosis
While the exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown, several theories exist regarding its origin.
Potential Causes:
- Retrograde menstruation, where menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity instead of exiting the body
- Immune system dysfunction, preventing the body from clearing misplaced endometrial cells
- Genetic predisposition, increasing the likelihood of developing endometriosis
- Hormonal influences, particularly estrogen, which promotes endometrial-like tissue growth
- Surgical scarring, where endometrial cells implant in sites such as a C-section incision
Who is at Risk?
- Women with a family history of endometriosis
- Individuals who started menstruating at an early age
- Women with short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days)
- Those with prolonged exposure to estrogen
Endometriosis and Infertility: How Does It Affect Reproductive Health?
Endometriosis is one of the leading causes of infertility, affecting nearly half of all women diagnosed with the condition. The presence of endometriotic lesions can:
- Block or damage the fallopian tubes, disrupting the egg fertilization process
- Create an inflammatory environment that affects egg quality
- Disrupt implantation of an embryo due to uterine abnormalities
“For women struggling to conceive, fertility treatments such as ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or in vitro fertilization (IVF) may provide a path to parenthood,” says Dr. Hosseinzadeh.
Diagnosis of Endometriosis
A definitive diagnosis of endometriosis often requires a combination of:
- Pelvic exam: Detects abnormalities such as cysts or scar tissue
- Ultrasound: Identifies ovarian endometriomas (chocolate cysts)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Provides detailed imaging of deep endometriosis
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgery that allows direct visualization and biopsy of endometriotic lesions
Taking Control of Your Health
Endometriosis is a challenging but manageable condition. If you are experiencing symptoms, seek expert evaluation and care.
Ready to take the next step? Book a complimentary virtual consultation with Dr. Minoos Hosseinzadeh at the Fertility Institute of San Diego to explore your treatment options.
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