Retrograde menstruation is a theory that explains the onset of endometriosis that occurs when menstrual blood, instead of leaving the uterus through the vagina, moves into the fallopian tubes and pelvic cavity, spreading without having to leave during menstruation.
Menstrual blood contains endometrial cells and when they reach other organs such as the ovaries, intestines or bladder, they attach to their walls, grow and bleed during menstruation causing a lot of pain.
- It is normal for some women to have retrograde menstruation without developing endometriosis.
- As their immune system is able to prevent the growth of endometrial cells in other organs; in some women.
- Menstrual remains are not completely removed.
- Leading to the onset of endometriosis.
Symptoms of retrograde menstruation are not always noticed, as it is a natural condition in some women, however, in cases where retrograde menstruation causes endometriosis, symptoms such as:
Diagnosis of retrograde menstruation is made by the gynecologist by observing symptoms and tests such as endoquinal ultrasound and CA-125 blood tests.
Treatment of retrograde menstruation may be done with the use of ovulation inhibitor medications or birth control pills. When retrograde periods are associated with endometriosis, your treatment may include the use of anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers to relieve symptoms of the disease.
In some cases, it may be necessary to induce menopause to control endometriosis or perform surgery to correct fallopian tube problems by preventing menstrual blood reflux in the abdominal area.