The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown. The most common explanation given for the condition is ‘retrograde menstruation’ whereby endometrial tissue migrates out of the womb through propulsion of tissue out of the fallopian tubes during a menstrual period. Risk factors that are associated with the development of endometriosis include:
- Genetics – having a close relative who has the condition increases the likelihood of also having endometriosis
- Menstrual and reproductive history – early age of first period (less than 12 years), short menstrual cycles (less than 26 days), not having children
- Weight – Leaner individuals have been shown to be more likely to have endometriosis
- Ethnicity – caucasian individuals are more likely to have endometriosis compared to those of other ethnicities.
