Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a disorder occurring in women wherein the endometrial cells, normally found on the lining of the uterus, begin to develop at locations outside it. It is the endometrial cells that are discharged from the body in course of menstruation, but due to endometriosis these cells attach themselves to the tissues exterior to the uterus. They are called endometriosis implants. They are commonly found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, surface of the pelvic cavity, lining of intestines and uterus.

The disorder primarily affects women in their reproductive years and is sometimes associated with infertility.

The most common symptom is a recurrent pelvic pain of varying intensities and at different instances such as painful cramps and lower back pains, painful sex, painful bowel movements and urinary urgency, frequency or painful voiding. Another symptom is infertility which may lead to endometriosis. Besides these the disorder may also be characterized by other signs such as severe abdominal, pelvic or lower back pain, nausea or vomiting tendencies and dizziness before periods, premenstrual spotting, extreme pain in legs and thighs and other symptoms.

One of the frequently asked questions is whether endometriosis acts as a precursor to some forms of cancer. Studies reveal that women with endometriosis have a slightly increased risk of developing certain forms of ovarian cancer. It is highest in women with the disorder and primary infertility. However the reason behind such association is yet to be understood clearly.

The disorder is prima facie detected through the symptoms. Doctors conduct recto-vaginal examinations to detect presence of nodules behind the uterus and on the lining of the ligaments attached to the pelvic walls.

But since these symptoms and examinations cannot be relied upon as conclusive evidence of such condition, ultrasound appears to be a more bankable option in locating such developments.

Although there is no known cure for endometriosis, it has been revealed through studies that tomato is effective to a considerable extent in preventing the chemical reaction that tends to cause scar tissues to build up in the womb. Lycopene found extensively in tomatoes is an antioxidant that raises the blood levels and reduces that chances of internal scarring.

However it is important to understand that endometriosis cannot as such be prevented, primarily because the cause is not clearly understood. Long term use of birth control medications only help reduce risk of endometriosis.