Loading...
Unveiling the Enigma: What Causes Endometriosis?

Unveiling the Enigma: What Causes Endometriosis?

March 22, 20243 MIN READ

The exact cause of endometriosis remains elusive, but several factors may contribute to its development:

  1. Retrograde Menstruation: During menstruation, blood containing endometrial cells can flow backward along the fallopian tubes into the pelvis. While most women's bodies absorb or break down this blood, in some cases, endometrial tissue implants outside the uterus, triggering symptoms.
  2. Family History: Women with a close relative, such as a mother or sister, diagnosed with endometriosis are significantly more likely to develop the condition themselves.
  3. Immune System Dysfunction: If the immune system fails to halt the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, endometriosis can develop.
woman in pain and text bloating and back pain during your period pain and hati health logo
Endometriosis symptoms may include bloating, back and pelvic pain, among others.

While endometriosis cannot be prevented, certain factors may reduce the likelihood of its development:

  • Irregular periods
  • Breastfeeding
  • Progestin-only hormone therapy
  • Pregnancy, which may decrease the risk due to increased progesterone levels

Endometriosis can lead to various complications beyond pelvic pain, including heightened susceptibility to other pain conditions like migraines and arthritis, as well as bladder and bowel issues. Additionally, women with endometriosis face an increased risk of uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, cancerous tumors in organs like the thyroid gland, ovary, and breast, autoimmune diseases, early natural menopause, and heart disease.

Understanding the menstrual cycle sheds light on how endometriosis arises. Most women's endometrium lining changes cyclically, thickening and shedding with menstruation. However, in some women, tissue resembling endometrial lining grows outside the uterus. The exact cause is unclear but could be linked to hormonal imbalances, genetic predisposition, or issues with period flow.

Despite ongoing research, the cause of endometriosis remains multifaceted, with complex interactions between genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. It's essential to raise awareness, promote early detection, and support ongoing research to improve understanding and management of this challenging condition.

Consult with one of our doctors if you have questions around your health, symptoms and pain. We provide available resources for you to discover concerns around your health, discreetly.

Speak to an expert 

Hati Health is a digital platform for women, providing on-demand access to products and services, including telehealth, symptom checking, holistic wellness plans and education.

We believe that being able to talk openly about women's healthcare and bringing appropriate solutions will inspire women to achieve their fullest potential in their personal and professional lives.

Recent Posts

Your First Trimester: What to Expect in the First 13 Weeks

June 23, 20254 MIN READ

Your First Trimester: What to Expect in the First 13 Weeks

Explore the Hati Health Pregnancy Calendar — your guide to what’s happening inside your body and how to care for yourself and your baby each week.

READ MORE
What to Get a Dad Who Has Everything? (Hint: Health.)

June 13, 20255 MIN READ

What to Get a Dad Who Has Everything? (Hint: Health.)

This Father's Day, skip the predictable gifts and give dad something that truly matters: his health and well-being. Here are thoughtful, practical health-focused gifts that show you care about his long-term happiness.

READ MORE
Why Your Doctor Might Order a Testosterone Test

June 5, 20254 MIN READ

Why Your Doctor Might Order a Testosterone Test

Yes, testosterone matters for women too. Whether you’re dealing with period issues, skin concerns, or energy dips, testing your testosterone is often the first step to understanding what’s really going on inside your body.

READ MORE
The Essential Guide to Women's Health Check-Ups

May 29, 20256 MIN READ

The Essential Guide to Women's Health Check-Ups

The Women's Wellness Basic Check-Up focuses on key areas of women's health, offering valuable insights that can help you take control of your wellness journey.

READ MORE