• Retrograde menstruation – this means that during menstruation, some of the endometrial tissue flows back up the fallopian tubes and gains access to the abdomen or pelvic area. However, whilst this is a popular theory it does not provide a full explanation, since this process can occur in most women, but only 10% develop the disease.
• Genetics (Inherited) – there is evidence that women are 6x’s more likely to develop endometriosis if their mother, grandmother or sister also suffers(ed).
• Immune Reaction – this means that the normal way in which the body rejects foreign tissue is not working properly.
• Environment – it has been identified that certain chemicals that we can be exposed to via the atmosphere may cause endometriosis e.g. dioxin.

It is possible that the cause is a combination of these and other theories.

What is known is that endometriosis is made worse by oestrogen (the normal female hormone). It is also recognised that symptom relief can be achieved by reducing the levels or effect of oestrogen.