Beyond the physical symptoms, endometriosis has a significant emotional impact. Living with constant pain, feeling misunderstood, or hearing that “menstrual pain is normal” can lead to anxiety, frustration, and even depression. Delayed diagnosis, which in many cases can take years, exacerbates this psychological impact.
Regarding the causes of endometriosis, there is still no single, definitive explanation. Several theories have been proposed, such as retrograde menstruation (when part of the menstrual flow flows back towards the pelvis), genetic factors, immune system abnormalities, and hormonal imbalances. It is very likely that it is a combination of several factors.
Diagnosing endometriosis is not always straightforward. It often begins with a thorough medical interview and a gynecological examination. Ultrasounds and MRIs can help identify some lesions, but the definitive diagnosis is usually confirmed by laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows direct visualization of the affected areas.
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the patient’s age, and her reproductive plans. In some cases, pain relievers and hormonal treatments are used to control pain and slow the progression of lesions. In other situations, surgery may be necessary to remove the lesions and improve quality of life. There is no definitive “cure,” but many options exist for effectively managing the condition.
