Who is affected by endometriosis?

QUESTION

In my puberty I had ovarian cyst which was removed 8 years ago. I was told that women with history of ovarian cyst removal could have endometriosis. Is it true? Is it so important for women health? Who is affected by endometriosis?

ANSWER from experts

Endometriosis affects women in their reproductive years (about 20-40). The exact prevalence of endometriosis is not known, since many women could have endometriosis wothout any symptoms.

Endometriosis is estimated to affect over one million women (estimates range from 3% to 18% of women) in the United States. It is one of the leading causes of pelvic pain and reasons for laparoscopic surgery and hysterectomy.

While most cases of endometriosis are diagnosed in women aged around 25-35 years, endometriosis has been reported in girls as young as 11 years of age. Endometriosis is rare in postmenopausal women.

Endometriosis is more commonly found in white women as compared with African American and Asian women. Studies further suggest that endometriosis is most common in taller, thin women with a low body mass index (BMI).

Delaying pregnancy until an older age is also believed to increase the risk of developing endometriosis.

Endometriosis Bible

Stop Suffering the Living Hell of Endometriosis

You are more likely to develop endometriosis if you:

* began getting your period at an early age
* have heavy periods
* have periods that last more than seven days
* have a short monthly cycle (27 days or less)
* have a close relative (mother, aunt, sister) with endometriosis

Some studies suggest that you may lower your chances of developing endometriosis if you exercise regularly and avoid alcohol and caffeine.