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10 Life Changing Endometriosis Research Facts and Finds | 2023 Update

endometriosis research

Endometriosis research has played a big part in me living a pain free life, and many others with Endo. It is through research, I am found ways to manage my pain naturally, determined the types of vitamins I need to take, what to eat and more. When I first discovered I had this chronic pain disorder over 10 years ago, there wasn’t a lot of research. Today, through a lot of grassroots work, Endometriosis is starting to get the new research attention it needs. In this blog post, I want o share 10 Endometriosis research facts to help you along your journey.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It affects about 10% of women of reproductive age and can cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, bleeding and spotting between menstrual periods, infertility, and bowel and bladder problems, according to Healthline.

There is no cure for endometriosis. But, some treatments can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. However, endometriosis is a historically receives underfunding area of medical research, and many aspects of the condition remain poorly understood.

Endometriosis Research Facts

Here are 10 facts from recent health research studies on endometriosis:

Endometriosis Effects and Links

  1. Endometriosis may have links to genetic factors. A large-scale study by the International Endogene Consortium identified 19 new genetic variants associated with endometriosis risk. These variants may affect how cells respond to hormones, inflammation and immune system signals.
  2. Endometriosis may also have influences by environmental factors. A National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences study found phthalates exposure during pregnancy may increase the risk of endometriosis. Phthalates are commonly used in plastics, cosmetics and personal care products.
  3. Endometriosis may impair fertility by affecting egg quality and implantation. A Yale School of Medicine study shows that women with endometriosis have lower levels of a protein. This is called AMH in their follicular fluid, which may indicate poorer egg quality. Another study by Monash University found that women with endometriosis have higher levels of inflammatory molecules in their uterine lining. Which, may impair embryo implantation.
  4. Endometriosis may increase the risk of other health problems. A meta-analysis by The Lancet found that women with endometriosis have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. Another meta-analysis by Human Reproduction Update found that women with endometriosis have a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, stroke and hypertension.
  5. Endometriosis diagnosis often takes years due to lack of awareness and effective tests. A survey by EndoFound reveals that it takes an average of 10 years for a diagnosis with endometriosis in the US. The current gold standard for diagnosis is laparoscopic surgery, which is invasive and costly.
  6. Non-invasive Endometriosis diagnosis may soon be possible. Blood tests or imaging techniques are being study as a new technic. Scientists are working on developing new ways to detect endometriosis without surgery. For example:

Non-Invasive Endometriosis Diagnosis

In 2018, scientists with the Feinstein Institute of Medical Research published a study that suggests tests on menstrual blood samples may provide a viable method of diagnosing endometriosis . The researchers found that the cells in the menstrual blood of those with endometriosis have certain characteristics .

In 2019, scientists from University College London published a study that shows MRI scans can accurately identify deep infiltrating endometriosis lesions , which are often missed by ultrasound of those with endometriosis have certain characteristics .

In 2019, scientists from University College London published a study that shows MRI scans can accurately identify deep infiltrating endometriosis lesions , which are often missed by ultrasound . MRI scans use radio waves and a strong magnetic field to generate clear images inside the body.

Endometriosis Treatment Facts

  1. Endometriosis treatment may vary depending on the severity of symptoms, the extent of disease and the desire for pregnancy. The main types of treatment are pain medication, hormonal therapy and surgery. However, none of these treatments are perfect and they may have side effects or limitations.
  2. Endometriosis treatment may benefit from new drugs that target specific pathways involved in the condition. Several clinical trials are testing new drugs that aim to reduce inflammation. Happening by inhibit angiogenesis (blood vessel formation), modulate immune system function or blocking nerve growth factor in endometriosis lesions.
  3. Endometriosis treatment may also benefit from alternative or complementary therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary changes or mind-body techniques. Some studies have suggested that these therapies may help reduce pain, improve mood and enhance well-being in women with endometriosis.
  4. Endometriosis awareness and advocacy are crucial for improving research. Research funding, diagnosis accuracy, treatment options and quality of life for women with endometriosis is driven by them. Several organizations such as Endo Black, EndoFound , EndoMarch , EndoWhat? , and others are working to raise awareness about endometriosis and support women who suffer from it.

What to Do With These Endometriosis Facts

I hope this blog post has given you some useful information about endometriosis and its current state of research. Please take the time your own search. Using some of the links in the post can be a great place to start. Also, take the time and talk through new information with your doctor.

HELLO

Meet Kyla

Hi Healthy Fam!

I am the creator of Pink Proverb — The Health and Wellness site for women focusing on being proactive about our healthy life and creating a self-care lifestyle that allows us to be our best selves.

I am a Stage IV Endometriosis mom, working hard to stay pain-free. This is my sacred place of inspiration, journaling the things that have helped me along the way.

For more, check out Healthy Kyla on Youtube!

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