In fact, only 25 to 40 percent of women with mild endometriosis goes on to have severe disease. Common symptoms are menstrual cramping, pelvic and low back pain throughout the month, pain with intercourse and infertility. Causes There are several unproven theories to the cause of endometriosis. Heredity, genetics and hormones may play a part. Immune system problems, infections and exposure to environmental toxins, especially dioxin and related pesticides in the diet or inhaling airborne pollutants are also theories being researched.
Endometriosis is very difficult to diagnose because of the vagueness of early symptoms.
A laparoscopy is needed to get an accurate diagnosis. This procedure usually is done under general anesthesia as a same-day surgical procedure. There are a variety of drugs, some relatively new that can help in the treatment of endometriosis and its symptoms. Some common treatments include hormonal therapy to slow the growth of endometriosis or conservative surgery to cut away the spots of endometrial tissue from their abnormal locations. These treatments will help to preserve a woman's ability to have children.