Endometriosis
Tissue that has gone astray
The big problem is that the lost piece of mucous membrane reacts to hormonal changes in a similar way as though it were still in the womb. For many women this causes unbearable pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation. These pains can also occur independently of the period – for example during sexual intercourse. Sometimes endometriosis can mean that a woman's desire to have a child goes unfulfilled.
Reasons not fully explored
Endometriosis affects many millions of women. The number is estimated at 16 million in the European Union alone. Yet the disease goes undiagnosed in many women, who therefore receive no treatment and no relief.
The initial symptoms are often interpreted as normal menstrual complaints. A definite diagnosis can only be made by performing a laparoscopy. If the source of the disease is detected in this way, it can be thermally destroyed directly or removed. However, three quarters of women experience symptoms again after these measures. The causes of the disease have still not been fully explained. Most experts believe that a reflux of menstruation blood forces cells from the uterus lining via the fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity. Other researchers believe that the cells spread from the uterus via lymph and blood vessels.
Promising research
A whole series of factors seems to contribute to the development and symptoms of endometriosis. Inflammatory processes seem to be one factor in addition to hormones. The same applies to the formation of blood vessels, which is necessary for the growth of endometrium cells − also outside the uterus. Bayer Schering Pharma is engaged in intensive research on this indication, applying the over 80 years of company experience in the field of sex hormones.
We currently have a promising product that was submitted for the treatment of endometriosis for registration to all Member States of the European Community in the end of 2008. It is a synthetic derivative of progesterone (progestin) which alleviates the pain caused by endometriosis. This drug could become the first low-dose oral preparation with minimal side effects for the long-term treatment of endometriosis.
Advice for patients
Every body reacts differently to medicines. Therefore it is impossible to tell which medicine works best for you. Please consult your physician.
