What are the causes of endometriosis? Genetics, hormones, immunity...

Discover the different factors that could explain this complex and still too little-understood disease.

What causes endometriosis?

Endometriosis is still a little-known disorder, yet it affects around 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. 

Intense pain, chronic fatigue, digestive problems... This disease impacts the daily lives of many people. 

But what actually causes endometriosis? Why do some women suffer from it and others don't? Let's explore the factors that could trigger this complex condition.

NB: to complement this article, we recommend you read our article: How to recognize the signs of endometriosis?

Understanding endometriosis

Endometriosis is characterized by the abnormal presence of endometrium-like tissue (the uterine lining) outside the uterus. This tissue reacts to the hormones of the menstrual cycle, causing inflammation, pain and sometimes even lesions and adhesions.

But where does this anomaly come from? The answer is not so simple, and to date there is no single cause. Endometriosis probably results from a mixture of genetic, hormonal, immune and environmental factors.

A genetic factor?

If your mother, sister or close relative suffers from endometriosis, you're more likely to be affected. Several studies have shown a genetic predisposition to this disease. Certain genes may make the body more sensitive to hormonal imbalances, facilitating the development of endometriosis lesions.

But beware: having a family history doesn't necessarily mean you'll develop the disease. It's just one factor among many!

Hormonal imbalance

Endometriosis is a hormone-dependent disease, which means it's influenced by hormonal fluctuations. In particular, estrogen plays a key role. Excessive production of this hormone could encourage the proliferation of endometrial cells outside the uterus.

Interestingly, some research suggests that women with endometriosis may have abnormally low levels of progesterone, a hormone which normally counteracts the effect of estrogen.

A disrupted immune system

Normally, our immune system should be able to identify and eliminate endometrial cells in the wrong place. But in women with endometriosis, this process seems to malfunction.

One hypothesis is that the immune system is either too weak or dysregulated, allowing cells to implant and grow outside the uterus.

Environmental factors and lifestyle

Does our environment play a role in the development of endometriosis? Several studies point the finger at endocrine disruptors, chemical substances present in certain plastics, pesticides or cosmetics, which could interfere with the hormonal system.

Other factors, such as chronic stress, diet or even exposure to certain toxins, could also contribute to the onset of the disease. While there is no absolute proof that these elements are direct causes, it is clear that they influence our hormonal and immune health.

Is there a single trigger?

Unfortunately, there is no ONE single cause of endometriosis. Rather, it's a combination of several factors that together create a fertile ground for its development.

Every woman is unique, and the mechanisms involved can vary from one person to another. That's what makes this disease so difficult to understand... and to treat!

Our opinion on the subject

Endometriosis is still too under-diagnosed. Many women suffer for years before getting a diagnosis, often downplayed by ill-informed healthcare professionals.

Yet a better understanding of the causes of endometriosis could lead to more effective prevention and earlier treatment.

And now what?

If you suspect endometriosis or are experiencing unexplained pain, don't let it go. Consult a healthcare professional, ask questions, request tests. You deserve to be listened to and cared for properly.

Did you know about these risk factors? Do you have any experiences or advice to share?