What causes Endometriosis?
The precise cause of endometriosis is not known.
The most likely cause of endometriosis is when, during a normal period, some of the blood (containing endometrial cells) flows backwards through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvis where it is absorbed. In some women the cells stick to the pelvic lining, and produce a substance which stimulates the lining of the pelvis to grow blood vessels to supply them with nutrients. The cells then survive and grow instead of being absorbed.
Endometriosis can also develop in women with blocked tubes and occasionally in women who are born without a uterus. This is most likely caused because the lining layer (peritoneum) of the pelvis changes spontaneously into endometrial cells.
Endometrial cells are sensitive to hormonal changes. This means that when the lining of the uterus sheds and a period occurs, the cells also bleed and change. This leads to bleeding and irritation in the pelvic lining or wherever there are cells.
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