Endometriosis is a painful and disturbing gynecological condition that affects about 2-10% of American women of childbearing age. Francisco Anguiano, MD, of Chula Vista, California, is highly skilled at managing and treating endometriosis. He and his medical staff are committed to providing the best care for their patients, relieving pain, and improving overall health, wellness, and quality of life. Call the office today or book your appointment online.
Endometriosis Q & A
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition that occurs when part of the tissue that lines the uterus, the endometrium, grows outside of the uterus — for example, on other pelvic organs such as the ovaries or fallopian tubes.
Even outside of the uterus, the endometrial tissue still bleeds and thickens during the menstrual cycle. This can be dangerous because the menstrual blood has nowhere to go. The endometrial tissue that’s outside the uterus acts just as it would normally — thickening, breaking down, and bleeding.
In some cases, cysts can occur in the ovaries, and the surrounding tissue can become irritated and scarred. This can develop into adhesions, when abnormal tissue develops and connects pelvic organs and tissues together.
Endometriosis can cause severe pain during menstruation and even infertility problems if it persists.
The hallmark symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. Other symptoms include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Pain with bowel movements and urination
- Pain during and after intercourse
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Fatigue
The symptoms of endometriosis can vary. It’s often misdiagnosed because the symptoms resemble that of other medical conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disorder, irritable bowel syndrome, and ovarian cysts.
What causes endometriosis?
Research is still ongoing, and the exact cause of endometriosis isn’t certain, but experts point to certain factors.
Retrograde Menstruation
Retrograde menstruation occurs when menstrual blood that contains endometrial cells flows the wrong way, back through the fallopian tubes. Instead of flowing out of the body through the vagina as it should, it can end up in the pelvic cavity, where it can stick to the pelvic walls and organs.
Peritoneal Cells
Some experts theorize that hormones and other immune factors prompt the cells on the inside of your abdomen — the peritoneal cells — to change into endometrial cells.
Embryonic Cells
Other experts theorize that during puberty, certain hormones can also cause the embryonic cells, or cells in the early developmental phases, to change into endometrial cell implants.
Other possible causes are after a surgery, when endometrial cells attach to a surgical incision, or due to an underlying immune system disorder.
What are the treatments for endometriosis?
Dr. Anguiano and his compassionate medical team provide a range of effective treatments for endometriosis that can help to manage and even stop the condition. The treatments include medications and surgery, hormone therapies, anti-inflammatory medications, and even a hysterectomy.
If you think you might be dealing with endometriosis, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Anguiano and his team.