As women, we face challenges not only in managing endometriosis but also in affording the necessary treatments. I know just how difficult it can be to get a proper diagnosis.
It took me four years of visiting an OBGYN to finally get a diagnosis, and even then, I was told I had everything from pre-diabetes to thyroid issues. 

For years, I kept going in circles with no real answers. It wasn’t until I saw a general practitioner that things started to make sense. She took the time to look at all my symptoms and finally diagnosed me with PCOS. She recommended some dietary changes and medication to help manage my symptoms.

I went through constant rounds of antibiotics, blood tests, and sonars. The sonars showed cysts, but they never fully explained what I was going through. The hardest part was feeling like I wasn’t taken seriously. I was often dismissed for scans and other treatments because I wasn’t pregnant, as if my pain wasn’t enough on its own. Let's break down what this condition is all about, how it impacts daily life, and what can be done to potentially prevent or reduce the risk.

Endometriosis is a health condition that many women face, but it often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood. It occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) starts growing outside the uterus, usually on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and sometimes even in the pelvic area. Unlike the tissue inside the uterus that sheds during menstruation, this misplaced tissue has no way to exit the body, which can lead to inflammation, scarring, and pain.

While some women experience mild symptoms, others can suffer from intense pain and other complications. It's estimated that around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age are affected by endometriosis, making it a widespread issue.

Symptoms and Effects on Daily Life
Endometriosis can show up in different ways. The most common symptom is pelvic pain, particularly during menstruation. However, this isn't your typical period cramp. Women with endometriosis often describe the pain as far more intense, with some feeling sharp or stabbing sensations. The pain can also extend beyond the menstrual cycle, causing discomfort during sex, bowel movements, or urination.

Other symptoms can include:
• Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
• Fatigue
• Digestive issues such as diarrhoea, constipation, or bloating
• Infertility

The condition can take a toll on mental health as well since chronic pain and physical limitations can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. The emotional strain of dealing with infertility for those affected can add to the overall burden.

What Causes Endometriosis?
The exact cause of endometriosis is still unclear, but there are a few theories. One popular explanation is retrograde menstruation, where menstrual blood flows backwards through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity instead of leaving the body. The endometrial cells in this blood stick to the pelvic walls and organs, where they continue to grow and respond to hormonal changes.

Other potential causes include genetic factors, immune system disorders, or even issues related to how cells develop in the uterus.

Why Endometriosis Persists
One of the biggest frustrations for women with endometriosis is that the condition often persists even after aggressive treatment. For women diagnosed with stage 3 or 4 endometriosis, removing the ovaries and even undergoing a partial or total hysterectomy doesn't guarantee relief. Endometrial tissue can regrow, and because the condition often doesn't respond well to hormone therapies, women are left with limited options for long-term relief.

Research shows that even after a hysterectomy, endometrial tissue may continue to grow, leading to recurring pain. This is why many gynaecologists are moving away from recommending hysterectomies as a solution for endometriosis. Additionally, hysterectomies can trigger early menopause, which brings its own set of challenges, including hot flashes, bone loss, and mood swings.

Is Endometriosis Linked to Autoimmune Issues?
A growing school of thought suggests that endometriosis might be linked to autoimmune disorders. While no direct cause has been identified, some researchers believe that women with endometriosis may have underlying immune system issues that make their bodies more prone to developing this condition. This explains why endometrial tissue can continue to grow even after surgery or hormone treatments. However, more research is needed to confirm this connection and explore potential treatments based on immune system regulation.

Is Endometriosis Linked to Cancer?
According to various studies, there is no definitive link between endometriosis and endometrial cancer. However, research has shown that women with endometriosis have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer compared to women without the condition. While the increased risk remains relatively small, women with endometriosis need to stay informed and discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers.
 
Can You Prevent Endometriosis?
While there's no surefire way to prevent endometriosis, some strategies may help lower your risk or reduce its severity. Since endometriosis is linked to estrogen production, keeping estrogen levels balanced could be beneficial. Here are a few tips that might help:

• Regular Exercise: Staying physically active helps lower estrogen levels and promotes overall health.
• Healthy Eating: Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids (like those found in fish and nuts) may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of endometriosis.
• Limiting Alcohol and Caffeine: These can raise estrogen levels, so it might help to cut back on both.
• Birth Control: Hormonal birth control can regulate or even stop periods, reducing the chances of endometrial tissue spreading.
• Avoid Exposure to Toxins

Certain environmental toxins, like those found in plastics and some pesticides, can hormone levels. Opt for natural or organic products when possible and reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals in everyday items.

Treatment Options
If diagnosed with endometriosis, treatment will vary depending on the severity of the condition. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage mild symptoms, while hormone therapy, like birth control or other medications, can help reduce or eliminate menstrual periods to prevent tissue growth.

In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended to remove as much endometrial tissue as possible. However, surgery isn't always a permanent fix, and symptoms can return over time.

While the cause of endometriosis’s is still unclear, there are ways to manage the condition and possibly lower the risk of developing it. Being proactive about health, staying informed, and seeking medical advice early can make a big difference. For those dealing with endometriosis, finding the right treatment plan can help manage symptoms and improve daily living.