Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where endometrium (the lining of the uterus) is found in locations outside the uterus.
This misplaced tissue may be found on the ovaries, uterus, bowel, bladder utero-sacral ligaments (ligaments that hold the uterus in place), or peritoneum (covering lining of the pelvis and abdominal cavity). On rare occasions it can be found in other distant sites.
Endometriosis is an endocrine and immune disease that affects an estimated 89 million women and girls around the world, regardless of ethnic or social origin.
No one knows exactly what causes endometriosis, but over the years many theories have been advanced.
The Retrograde Menustration Theory
This theory suggests that the endometrial cells from the uterus are pushed backward through the fallopian tubes and exit into the abdomen where they implant and grow.
Genetic Theory
There is strong research evidence that endometriosis may be hereditary. Some studies report that women with endometriosis frequently come from families with a high incidence of the disease, and are much more likely to have daughters with the disease.
Lymphatic Distribution Theory
This theory says that endometrial material gets distributed throughout the body via the lymphatic system.
Immune System Dysfunctions Theory
The most recent studies seem to be considering evidence that might classify endometriosis as part of a larger immunological disorder. (J.A. Hill) Women with endometriosis seem to suffer disproportionately to a number of other immune system disorders such as lupus, thyroid-related problems, allergies, and candida albicans. Women with endometriosis have also been found to carry cells with reduced ability to fight off “bad” cells (Dmowski, M.P. et al.), and high levels of autoantibodies that attack their own healthy cells.
Environmental Influences Theory
Recent studies have also pointed to environmental factors as contributors to the development of endometriosis. A ground-breaking study, orginally designed to examine the affects of dioxins on reproduction in rhesus monkeys, found that 79% of the monkeys exposed to dioxins had developed endometriosis. In addition, the more dioxin each individual monkey was exposed to, the more severe the resultant endometriosis.
We can avoid dioxins in our lives by:
* Avoiding the consumption of contaminated fish
* Using dioxin-free (unbleached) tampons, pads, napkins, paper towels and toilet paper
* Consuming organic meats and vegetables
* Using non-toxic cleaning agents in our homes
Many women have reported good results by altering their diet / nutritional intake. Possitive results have been reported by eliminating; caffeine, sugar (including honey), alcohol, and chocolate, and switching to organic meats. Others claim to have found relef with products that have high soy and fiber content, as well as, vitamin supplements (vitamin B complex, E, and Selenium). To date, their has been no conclusive scientific studies to back up these claims.
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