Why some women develop endometriosis is not known. One theory suggests that in some women some of the endometrial tissue flows backward during menstrual flow into the fallopian tubes and abdomen, where it attaches and grows. Another theory suggests that some endometrial tissue in the uterus backs up in all women. The immune system may then destroy the misplaced tissue. Women who develop endometriosis, however, may have an immune system that is not able to destroy the misplaced tissue.
Some women have no symptoms.
There is no cure for endometriosis. It is a disease that can get more severe as you grow older. However, there are many ways to lessen the symptoms and complications. The treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms, the location and degree of endometriosis, your age, and your plans for childbearing. If the only symptom is mild premenstrual pain, the only treatment necessary may be a medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen to relieve the pain.