Main theories regarding endometriosis development

Researchers do not know exactly what causes endometriosis, but there are a few theories of what might cause it:

• Blood or lymph system transport: Endometrial tissues are transported to other areas of the body through the blood or lymphatic systems, similar to the way cancer cells can spread through the body.
• Direct transplantation: Endometrial cells may attach to the walls of the abdomen or other areas of the body after a surgery, such as a C-section or hysterectomy.
• Genetics: Endometriosis seems to affect some families more often than others, so there may be a genetic link to the condition.
• Reverse menstruation: Endometrial tissue goes into the fallopian tubes and the abdomen instead of exiting the body during a woman’s period.
• Transformation: Other cells in the body may become endometrial cells and start growing outside the endometrium.