What Could Be Causing Your Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a painful condition that affects a woman’s reproductive organs, and it’s more common than you might think. While many women suffer in silence, advanced procedures such as endometrial ablation surgery can actually help restore health and vitality.

There are many possible culprits when it comes to endometriosis symptoms, which occur when the tissue that is normally found inside the uterus begins to grow outside of it, causing pain, infertility and other medical complications. Here are some common links that may be at the root of your endometriosis:

• Metaplasia: This condition occurs when abnormal cell growth occurs on the outside of the uterus, causing endometriosis symptoms.

• Reverse menstrual flow: In some women, menstrual fluid can flow in reverse, causing it to pool in areas around the pelvic organs. This menstrual blood and tissue is thought to attach and grow, causing endometriosis.

• Genetics: For women whose close family members have a history of endometriosis, the likelihood of developing the disease increases.

• Lymphatic drainage: Some studies indicate that pieces of endometrial tissue can be dispersed through the lymphatic system and eventually travel to other locations within the reproductive organs.

• Immune disease: A weakened immune system can be linked to endometriosis symptoms in some women.

• Environmental toxins: Several studies suggest that toxins are responsible for putting stress on the immune system and impacting hormonal function, leading to endometriosis.

No matter what the cause, if you suffer from painful endometriosis, help is available. Endometrial ablation surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that “ablates” the lining of the uterus using very hot water. There are no incisions and the in-office procedure effectively halts menstrual flow without impacting hormone levels (as is the case with hysterectomy). The procedure causes little to no discomfort, and has a high success rate.

Endometrial ablation surgery is not for everyone, since women who have not finished having children will not be good candidates, and certain medical conditions may preclude you from having this procedure. If you suspect endometriosis is behind troublesome symptoms like painful intercourse, excessively heavy menstrual cycles and chronic cramping and pain, you should see your OB/GYN as soon as possible to see if endometrial ablation surgery is right for you.

Call us today at (310) 393-9359 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Ghozland and discuss your options.