Endometriosis
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside the uterus. This tissue can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, and other areas in the pelvis. Just like the tissue inside the uterus, this tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.
When you have your period, this tissue breaks down and bleeds. But unlike the tissue inside the uterus, it has no way to leave your body. This can cause inflammation, pain, and scar tissue. Over time, the scar tissue can stick organs together and create painful adhesions.
Endometriosis affects about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It can impact fertility and quality of life. Early detection and management can help reduce symptoms and prevent progression.
Symptoms
- Painful periods with severe cramping that may start before and extend after your period
- Chronic pelvic pain throughout the month
- Pain during or after sex
- Painful bowel movements or urination during menstrual periods
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
- Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant
- Fatigue that impacts daily activities
- Bloating and digestive issues during menstruation
- Lower back pain that worsens during your period
Some women with endometriosis have no symptoms at all. Others experience severe pain that affects their daily life. The severity of pain does not always match the extent of the condition.
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Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood. One theory is that menstrual blood flows backward through the fallopian tubes into the pelvis instead of leaving the body. Another theory suggests that cells outside the uterus transform into endometrial tissue. Genetics play a role, as endometriosis tends to run in families.
High estrogen levels can stimulate the growth of endometrial tissue both inside and outside the uterus. Risk factors include starting your period at an early age, having shorter menstrual cycles, never giving birth, and having a family history of endometriosis. Heavy or prolonged periods and low body mass index may also increase risk.
How it's diagnosed
Endometriosis is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exam, imaging, and sometimes surgery. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform a pelvic exam to check for abnormalities. Ultrasound or MRI imaging can help identify larger areas of endometrial tissue.
Blood tests can provide helpful information about hormone levels and inflammation markers. Rite Aid offers CA-125 and estrogen testing as add-on tests to help monitor endometriosis. Elevated CA-125 levels can indicate endometriosis, though this marker can also be elevated in other conditions. Estrogen testing helps assess hormone balance, as high estrogen can drive endometriosis growth. A definitive diagnosis typically requires laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery where a doctor looks inside the pelvis.
Treatment options
- Pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce inflammation and discomfort
- Hormonal birth control pills, patches, or IUDs to regulate or stop periods
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists to temporarily stop estrogen production
- Progestin therapy to reduce or eliminate menstruation
- Laparoscopic surgery to remove endometrial tissue and scar tissue
- Anti-inflammatory diet focusing on vegetables, fruits, omega-3 fatty acids, and whole grains
- Regular exercise to reduce estrogen levels and improve symptoms
- Stress management through yoga, meditation, or counseling
- Pelvic floor physical therapy to address pain and muscle tension
- Heat therapy with heating pads or warm baths during painful episodes
Need testing for Endometriosis? Add it to your panel.
- Simple blood draw at your nearest lab
- Results in days, not weeks
- Share results with your doctor
Frequently asked questions
The exact cause is unknown, but experts believe it may result from retrograde menstruation, where menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvis. Genetic factors and immune system issues may also play a role. High estrogen levels can stimulate the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.
Blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose endometriosis, but they can provide helpful information. CA-125 levels may be elevated in women with endometriosis, though this marker is not specific to the condition. Estrogen testing helps assess hormone balance, which is important for managing endometriosis.
No, not all women with endometriosis experience infertility. About 30 to 50 percent of women with endometriosis may have difficulty getting pregnant. Many women with mild to moderate endometriosis can still conceive naturally or with fertility treatments.
Consider reducing red meat, processed foods, trans fats, and refined sugars, which can increase inflammation. Alcohol and caffeine may worsen symptoms in some women. Focus on an anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseed.
Endometriosis typically does not go away on its own without treatment. Symptoms may improve during pregnancy or after menopause when estrogen levels drop. Without intervention, endometriosis often persists and may worsen over time, leading to more pain and scar tissue.
Testing frequency depends on your symptoms and treatment plan. Your doctor may recommend monitoring CA-125 and estrogen levels every 3 to 6 months to track disease progression and treatment response. Regular follow-ups help adjust your treatment plan as needed.
No, surgery is not the only option. Many women manage symptoms with hormonal medications, pain relievers, and lifestyle changes. Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments fail or when fertility is a concern. The best approach depends on your symptoms, age, and reproductive goals.
Yes, regular exercise can help reduce endometriosis symptoms. Physical activity lowers estrogen levels, reduces inflammation, and releases natural pain-relieving endorphins. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days, including walking, swimming, or yoga.
Endometriosis is when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. Adenomyosis is when this tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus itself. Both conditions cause pelvic pain and heavy periods, but they occur in different locations and may require different treatments.
Yes, endometriosis can return after surgery in some women. Studies show recurrence rates of 20 to 40 percent within 5 years after surgery. Managing estrogen levels through hormonal therapy and lifestyle changes after surgery can help reduce the risk of recurrence.