While there is no exact singular cause of endometriosis, there are a multitude of highly supported theories amongst the endometriosis community. From the classic Sampson’s Theory of Retrograde Menstruation to more modern beliefs of Endometrial Stem Cells, there are a bevy of theories that continued to be studied and further looked into today. However, the idea of there being a singular cause for endometriosis is much less likely than the true underlying cause coming from a combination of these well-researched theories. We, therefore, find it highly beneficial to discuss some of the most widely believed causes of endometriosis, as opposed to just choosing one singular theory.
Endometriosis is a disease of ectopic endometrial-like tissue found outside of the uterus. Lesions are characterized as estrogen-dependent, benign, inflammatory, stem-cell driven and at times progressive with diffuse fibrosis, deep infiltration, and resistance to apoptosis and progesterone. While the cause of endometriosis is unknown, multiple plausible theories have been proposed. These include retrograde menstruation, and implantation, spontaneous development of ectopic endometrial tissue (mülleriosis), peritoneal metaplasia (abnormal change in tissue), differentiation of mesenchymal cells (development issues), or an uncharacterized combination of these potential causes. Thus while there are multiple theories on the the cause of endometriosis, there is no known direct singular mechanism. In the end, the true cause of endometriosis most likely lies in a combination of these factors, as opposed to just one.
Normal human endometrial lining is subjected to numerous cycles of growth and differentiation as the endometrium (uterine lining) sheds and regenerates during a normal menstrual cycle. Its regenerative capacity is believed to come from resident mesenchymal stem/stromal cells that have potentially all of the classic properties of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. These stem cells are known for their multipotency (ability to generate into several forms of cells) and their potential for self-renewal and reconstitution in an ectopic locations. This ability to self renew in ectopic regions is one purposed theory on how these stem cells can lead to endometriosis. Furthermore, genetics can play a potential role in this process and disease development.
What possible role do genetics play in endometriosis development?
Genealogical databases have shown a familial connection between first and second degree relatives affected by endometriosis, suggesting a genetic component of the disease. In addition, alterations in HOX gene expression cause uterine structural abnormalities and abnormal endometrial development. Gene expression profiling has shown differences in the endometrium with a higher susceptibility for causing endometriosis. The molecular composition of the endometrial tissue influences whether ectopic endometrium will have the ability to interact with a receptive peritoneum (lining of the abdominal cavity) and become functional, thereby leading to disease. For example, decreased expression of HOXA10 in eutopic endometrium is seen in animal models of endometriosis as well as in women with endometriosis. This means there is a possible epigenetic phenomena in endometriosis, that could play secondary to other causes.
A genetic predisposition to the disease could account for the discrepancy between those who develop endometriosis lesions or symptoms and those who do not following an inciting event. For instance, many women experience retrograde menstruation, as evidenced by blood in the pelvis at entry during laparoscopy, but most are asymptomatic or without pathologic evidence of endometriosis.
What is the theory of retrograde menstruation in endometriosis development?
During normal menstruation, the female body naturally sheds the endometrium (the clinical term for the lining of the uterus), which is the tissue that grows every month to prepare for the implantation of a fertilized egg. While many women experience retrograde menstruation (the backward flow of menstrual debris) there is believed speculation that this mechanism may in fact play a role in endometriosis development. Sampson’s theory of retrograde menstruation is based on endometrial cells being transported through the fallopian tubes into the peritoneal cavity (lining of the abdomen) at the time of menstruation, leading to ectopic endometrial tissue and the development of endometriosis.
As a woman’s hormones change during her menstrual cycle, these endometriosis implants (also referred to as lesions or nodules) caused by retrograde menstruation and ovarian development and leakage, respond to those hormonal fluctuations. The lesions then grow, menstruate, and shed along with the normal lining of the uterus, allowing the endometriosis to spread. Unfortunately, unlike normal endometrium that naturally leaves the body, when these implants shed there is no way for the material to exit the body as the lesions are implanted in ectopic regions much deeper in the pelvic and abdominal cavity. Thus the disease continues to build up.
How do uterine structural anomalies possibly play a role in endometriosis development?
Multiple studies have also noted an association between uterine anomalies and endometriosis, a relationship that may in fact be causal. Structural defects of the uterus likely contribute to dysfunctional uterine contractions and abnormal blood flow during menstruation, i.e. retrograde menstruation. Both obstructive and nonobstructive uterine anomalies can lead to increased retrograde menstruation. However, persistence of endometriosis symptoms after correction of an outflow obstruction challenges the theory that an outflow obstruction must be present to cause abnormal menstruation. Nevertheless, an outflow obstruction could contribute to an increased volume of blood directed through the fallopian tubes into the peritoneal cavity (retrograde menstruation). Correction of a structural abnormality has been shown to improve endometriosis symptoms, and could potentially improve a common sequelae of both uterine anomalies and endometriosis: infertility.
How does abnormal uterine peristalsis play a role in endometriosis development?
A distinct, but interrelated issue to uterine structure abnormalities, is dysfunctional uterine peristalsis (movement) and the distribution of ectopic endometrial tissue. Uterine peristalsis occurs in the endometrium (lining of the uterus) and subendometrial myometrium (beneath the lining). Women with laparoscopically proven endometriosis show enhancement of the subendometrial myometrium on transvaginal ultrasound. Functional MRI studies demonstrate similar findings of a dysfunctional peristalsis suggesting that the origin of endometriosis could be in the structure and function of the uterus. The uterus with a structural anomaly will be at an increased risk of dysfunctional uterine peristalsis. The combination of dysperistalsis and retrograde menstruation with a receptive peritoneum to this menstrual debris, serves as a plausible explanation for how ectopic endometrial tissue can anchor and become functional, thus causing endometriosis.
What symptoms can these theories cause in forming endometriosis?
The disease causes internal bleeding, inflammation, and expression of irritating enzymes. It can implant in the bowel, bladder, intestines, and other areas of the pelvic cavity, causing severe pain, the formation of scar tissue, adhesions (fibrous bands of dense tissue), and can cause the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) and root to existing nerves. This can lead to chronic pelvic pain, severe cramping, bowel or urinary disorders, painful intercourse and even infertility.
If you find yourself experiencing these symptoms, it could be due to a high rate of retrograde menstruation, which means that endometriosis may be on its way or has already developed. The most important step to treating your symptoms is through overcoming the taboo that surrounds the female period and in turn a disease such as endometriosis. However, we are always open to talking with patients and do our best in helping them find the cause of their discomfort.
Prior to meeting Dr. Seckin and reading his book, “The Doctor Will See You Now”, I knew little to nothing about endometriosis. I was led to believe that endometriosis was not a serious condition. I was told that the pain could be managed by taking the “pill”. I was told that the cysts on my ovaries were harmless. I was…
Fast forward 5 years to find out incidentally I had a failing kidney. My left kidney was only functioning at 18%. During this time, I was preparing all my documents to send to Dr. Seckin to review. However, with this new information I put everything on hold and went to a urologist. After a few months, no one could figure…
I had a wonderful experience working with Dr. Seckin and his team before, during and after my surgery. I came to Dr. Seckin having already had laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis 5 years prior, with a different surgeon. My symptoms and pain had returned, making my life truly challenging and my menstrual cycle unbearable. Dr. Seckin was quick to validate my…
I came to Dr. Seckin after years of dealing with endometriosis and doctors who didn't fully understand the disease. He quickly ascertained what needed to be done, laid out the options along with his recommendation and gave me the time to make the right decision for me. My surgery went without a hitch and I'm healing very well. He and…