Etiology and epidemiology of endometriosis

Article Abstract:

Endometriosis is a gynecological complication that develops when the cells that normally line the uterus, the endometrial cells, grow and function in other locations in the body. Pelvic pain, particularly during menstruation, is the most common symptom. Masses of endometrial tissue can be found in reproductive structures. The actual prevalence of endometriosis is difficult to ascertain, since laparoscopy, a surgical procedure whereby a tube affixed magnifying lens is inserted into a small opening in the abdomen to visualize internal structures, must be performed to confirm a diagnosis. Based on information obtained from hospital admissions, between one and seven percent of women 15 to 45 years of age have endometriosis. The cause of endometriosis is unclear, but two theories have been proposed. Many believe that cells lining the uterus become dislodged and travel upwards through the pelvic organs. These tissue fragments implant anywhere in the abdominal cavity. Women with menstrual cycles shorter than 27 days or periods lasting longer than eight days are more likely to develop endometriosis. Any blockage in the opening of the cervix forces menstrual blood upwards through the uterus, increasing the chance of endometriosis. Another theory implicates estrogen, the hormone produced by the ovaries. Endometriosis is rarely seen before puberty or after menopause (except if estrogen therapy is being taken), because estrogen release is low. New findings suggest that exercise decreases the amount of estrogen released from the ovaries. Since estrogen can be produced by fat cells in small amounts, women with low body fat produce less estrogen. Furthermore, exercise increases the clearance of estrogen from the body. All these factors contribute to the lower incidence of endometriosis in women who engage in vigorous exercise. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Causes of, Physiological aspects, Estrogen, Estrogens, Menstruation, Endometriosis

---

Induction of ovulation in infertile women with hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance

Article Abstract:

Weight loss and treatment with diabetes drugs can help women with infertility caused by polycystic ovary syndrome. Polycystic ovary syndrome is characterized by excessive male hormone levels and infertility. Diabetes drugs that can induce ovulation include metformin, rosiglitazone, and pioglitazone.

Care and treatment, Infertility, Female, Female infertility, Stein-Leventhal syndrome, Polycystic ovary syndrome

---

The initial fertility consultation: recommendations concerning cigarette smoking, body mass index, and alcohol and caffeine consumption

Article Abstract:

Couples who seek counseling from an obstetrician-gynecologist for fertility problems should be told to stop smoking, limit their consumption of alcohol and caffeine, and maintain a healthy body weight.

Risk factors, Infertility

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Weapon involvement in home invasion crimes. Relationship of hearing impairment to dementia and cognitive dysfunction in older adults
• Abstracts: A follow-up study of methods of contraception, sexual activity, and rates of trichomoniasis, candidiasis, and bacterial vaginosis
• Abstracts: Risk factor for symptomatic mitochondrial toxicity in HIV/hepatitis C virus-coinfected patients during interferon plus ribavirin-based therapy
• Abstracts: Energy expenditure and physical activity in relation to bone mineral density in women with anorexia nervosa. Validation of a dietary record routine in geriatric patients using doubly labelled water
• Abstracts: Attachment of the rectovaginal septum to the pelvic sidewall. Prevalence of perioperative complications among women undergoing reconstructive pelvic surgery

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.