What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological condition in which tissue similar to the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) grows outside the uterus. These endometrium-like cells can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, and other organs in the pelvic area. Less commonly, they can also appear in more distant locations in the body.

symptoms of endometriosis

The symptoms of endometriosis vary widely but may include:

• Severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea)
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Pain during bowel movements or urination during menstruation
• infertility
• Fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence and nausea , especially during menstruation

causes and risk factors

The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but there are several theories:

• Retrograde menstruation : Menstrual blood flows backwards through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity.
• Embryonic cell transformation : Cells in the abdominal cavity transform into endometrium-like tissue.
• Immune system disorders : A weakened immune system cannot prevent the spread of endometrial cells outside the uterus.
• Genetics : A familial clustering suggests genetic components.

Risk factors include:

• Never having given birth
• onset of menstruation at a young age
• Short menstrual cycles
• High estrogen levels
• Low BMI
• inheritance

diagnostics

Diagnosing endometriosis can be difficult and often requires several steps:

• Anamnesis : Collection of medical history and symptoms.
• Gynecological examination : Sometimes cysts or scar tissue can be felt.
• Imaging techniques : ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Laparoscopy : A surgical procedure in which a doctor can directly view endometriosis lesions and take tissue samples through small incisions in the abdomen.

treatment options

There are different approaches to treating endometriosis, depending on the severity of symptoms and the desire for fertility:

Drug treatment:

• Painkillers : NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to relieve pain.
• Hormone therapy : The aim is to slow or stop the growth of endometrial tissue. These include:
  • Gestagens and progestins
  • gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists
  • Contraceptives (combined pill or contraceptive patch)
  • aromatase inhibitors

Surgical treatment:

• Laparoscopic surgery : removal or destruction of endometriosis lesions.
• Hysterectomy : removal of the uterus when other treatments are unsuccessful (usually as a last resort).

diet and lifestyle

Diet and lifestyle can affect the symptoms of endometriosis:

• Anti-inflammatory diet : Foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flaxseed) can reduce inflammation.
• Avoid processed foods : Sugar, refined carbohydrates and trans fats should be avoided.
• Reduce caffeine and alcohol : These can increase inflammation.
• Vitamin D and calcium : May help reduce inflammation and support immune function.

New scientific findings: Fusobacterium

A recent scientific discovery has shown that the bacterium Fusobacterium may play a role in the development and progression of endometriosis. Studies have found this bacterium more frequently in the endometriosis lesions of affected women, suggesting a possible link between this bacterial infection and the disease. Further research is needed to determine how Fusobacterium affects endometriosis and whether targeting this bacterium can alleviate symptoms.

support and self-help

Endometriosis can be a significant burden, but there is support and resources available:

• self-help groups and online forums
• Psychological support
• Regular exercise and stress management techniques
• Complementary therapies : Acupuncture, yoga and other relaxation techniques may be helpful.

Sources and further information

For further information and current studies on endometriosis, you can visit the following sources:

• Endometriosis Association Germany eV
• German Society for Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG)
• National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Endometriosis is a complex disease that requires individual treatment approaches. An early and comprehensive treatment plan can help to significantly improve the quality of life of those affected.