Low birth weight is strongly associated with the risk of deep infiltrating endometriosis: results of a 743 case-control study

Effects of the gut microbiota and its metabolite short-chain fatty acids on endometriosis

In recent years, a growing body of research has confirmed that the gut microbiota plays a major role in the maintenance of human health and disease. A gut microbiota imbalance can lead to the development of many diseases, such as pregnancy complications, adverse pregnancy outcomes, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and cancer. Short-chain fatty acids are metabolites of specific intestinal bacteria and are crucial for maintaining intestinal homeostasis and regulating metabolism and immunity. Endometriosis is the result of cell proliferation, escape from immune surveillance, and invasive metastasis. There is a strong correlation between the anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects of short-chain fatty acids produced by gut microbes and the development of endometriosis. Given that the mechanism of action of gut microbiota and Short-chain fatty acids in endometriosis remain unclear, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the complex interactions between intestinal flora, short-chain fatty acids and endometriosis. In addition, we explored potential microbial-based treatment strategies for endometriosis, providing new insights into the future development of diagnostic tests and prevention and treatment methods for endometriosis.

Horizons in Endometriosis: Proceedings of the Montreux Reproductive Summit, 14-15 July 2023

Endometriosis is a complex and chronic gynaecological disorder that affects millions of women worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and impacting reproductive health. This condition affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age and is characterised by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, potentially leading to symptoms such as chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhoea, dyspareunia, and infertility. The Montreux summit brought a number of experts in this field together to provide a platform for discussion and exchange of ideas. These proceedings summarise the six main topics that were discussed at this summit to shed light on future directions of endometriosis classification, diagnosis, and therapeutical management. The first question addressed the possibility of preventing endometriosis in the future by identifying risk factors, genetic predispositions, and further understanding of the pathophysiology of the condition to develop targeted interventions. The clinical presentation of endometriosis is varied, and the correlation between symptoms severity and disease extent is unclear. While there is currently no universally accepted optimal classification system for endometriosis, several attempts striving towards its optimisation - each with its own advantages and limitations - were discussed. The ideal classification should be able to reconcile disease status based on the various diagnostic tools, and prognosis to guide proper patient tailored management. Regarding diagnosis, we focused on future tools and critically discussed emerging approaches aimed at reducing diagnostic delay. Preserving fertility in endometriosis patients was another debatable aspect of management that was reviewed. Moreover, besides current treatment modalities, potential novel medical therapies that can target underlying mechanisms, provide effective symptom relief, and minimise side effects in endometriotic patients were considered, including hormonal therapies, immunomodulation, and regenerative medicine. Finally, the question of hormonal substitution therapy after radical treatment for endometriosis was debated, weighing the benefits of hormone replacement.

Association between endometriosis and obstetric complications: Insight from the National Inpatient Sample

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between endometriosis and adverse obstetric outcomes using data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database.

METHODS

The ICD-10 coding system was used to identify codes for endometriosis and obstetric outcomes, and data from the NIS (2016-2019) were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize variables, while the chi-square test was used to detect significant differences for categorical variables. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were conducted to assess the association between endometriosis and obstetric outcomes. On multivariate analysis, adjustment was done for age, race, hospital region, smoking status, and alcohol misuse. Forest plots were used to visualize odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Overall, 2,854,149 women were included in this analysis, of whom 4,006 women had endometriosis. The post-hoc Bonferroni correction was applied to account for multiple comparisons, and our analyses revealed several statistically significant associations (p < 0.004). Specifically, on univariate analysis, significant associations with endometriosis were identified for ruptured uterus, placenta previa, placental abruption, postpartum hemorrhage, preeclampsia, amniotic fluid abnormality, gestational diabetes, preterm labor, and multiple gestation. On multivariate analysis, significant associations with endometriosis were observed for placenta previa, placental abruption, postpartum hemorrhage, preeclampsia, amniotic fluid abnormality, preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, and multiple gestation.

CONCLUSION

The present findings provide important insights into the potential relationship between endometriosis and various adverse obstetric outcomes and may help inform clinical practice and future research. Further studies that use more detailed clinical data and longitudinal designs are needed to solidify the presented conclusions.

Epigenetic Regulation Interplays with Endometriosis Pathogenesis in Low-Birth-Weight Patients via the Progesterone Receptor B-VEGF-DNMT1 Axis

BACKGROUND

Low birth weight (LBW) is a risk factor associated with endometriosis. Our study aimed to analyze the risk of endometriosis in women with a LBW history and the relationships of progesterone receptor B (PR-B) gene promoter methylation, DNA methyltransferase-1 (DNMT1) expression, PR-B expression, and vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) with endometriosis.

METHODS

This study was conducted in two stages, a retrospective case-control design and a cross-sectional design, with 52 cases of endometriosis and 30 controls, which were further subdivided into LBW and non-LBW groups, at Hasan Sadikin General Hospital and its hospital networks from October 2017 to August 2021. Menstrual blood was taken from subjects and analyzed using pyrosequencing techniques to assess DNA methylation, while q-RT PCR was used to assess gene expression.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in PR-B methylation, DNMT1 expression, PR-B expression, and VEGF expression (p < 0.001) between the case and control groups. There was a significant negative correlation between PR-B methylation and PR-B expression (r = -0.558; p = 0.047). Based on a multiple logistic analysis, the most dominant factor affecting endometriosis incidence is PR-B (OR 10.40, 95% CI 3.24-33.4, R² = 45.8). We found that patients with a low birth weight history had a 1.41-times-higher risk of developing endometriosis (95% CI 0.57-3.49, p = 0.113), although the relationship was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Endometriosis is associated with PR-B gene promoter hypermethylation, decreased PR-B expression, and increased DNMT1 and VEGF expression. The methylation of PR-B is the most dominant factor affecting endometriosis incidence.

Endometriosis and the Temporomandibular Joint-Preliminary Observations

(1) Background: The complete picture of the disease is not fully recognized and extends far beyond the pelvis. The disease's impacts lead to systemic inflammation, in turn resulting in sensitization to pain. The aim of this study was to check whether statistical correlations exist in women with endometriosis with regard to their experience of pain: headache, pelvic pain, temporomandibular joint pain, along with teeth clenching and the treatment of the disease. We constructed contingency tables, followed by Pearson's chi-square test and Cramer's V coefficient values. (2) Methods: A survey was conducted among 128 women aged 33.43 ± 5.79 with a diagnosis of endometriosis (disease duration 6.40 ± 5.88 years). (3) Results: There was a correlation between the occurrence of pain on the right and left sides of the pelvis and pain on the right and left sides of the temporomandibular joint, p-value = 0.0397, V = 0.2350, and between the presence of pelvic pain and the treatment of endometriosis, p-value = 0.0104, V = 0.3709, and between the presence of pain outside the pelvis and the treatment of endometriosis, p-value = 0.0311, V = 0.4549. There was a highly significant correlation between teeth clenching and temporomandibular joint pain, p-value = 0.0005, V = 0.3695. (4) Conclusions: The study revealed a correlation between pelvic endometriosis symptoms and symptoms in the temporomandibular joint.

Epigenetics, endometriosis and sex steroid receptors: An update on the epigenetic regulatory mechanisms of estrogen and progesterone receptors in patients with endometriosis

Endometriosis is a benign gynecological disease affecting ∼10% of reproductive-aged women and is defined as the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. Endometriosis can cause a variety of health problems, from pelvic discomfort to catamenial pneumothorax, but it's mainly linked with severe and chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and deep dyspareunia, as well as reproductive issues. The pathogenesis of endometriosis involves an endocrine dysfunction, with estrogen dependency and progesterone resistance, and inflammatory mechanism activation, together with impaired cell proliferation and neuroangiogenesis. The present chapter aims to discuss the main epigenetic mechanisms related to estrogen receptors (ERs) and progesterone receptors (PRs) in patients with endometriosis. There are numerous epigenetic mechanisms participating in endometriosis, regulating the expression of the genes encoding these receptors both indirectly, through the regulation of transcription factors, and directly, through DNA methylation, histone modifications, micro RNAs and long noncoding RNAs. This represents an open field of investigation, which may lead to important clinical implications such as the development of epigenetic drugs for the treatment of endometriosis and the identification of specific and early biomarkers for the disease.

Physiotherapy Management in Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a disease whose underlying cause is the growth of the endometrium outside the uterine cavity. The disease is characterised by unpleasant pain in the pelvic region, irrespective of the phase of the woman's cycle. Physiotherapy in its various forms can be an excellent complement to the gynaecological treatment of endometriosis, by virtue of reducing inflammation, alleviating pain and thus significantly improving women's quality of life. Physiotherapy in endometriosis should include kinesiotherapy, manual therapy including visceral therapy, physical therapy, spa treatment including balneotherapy, and hydrotherapy. The aim of this study is to present the use of physiotherapy as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of endometriosis. A review of the available literature in the Medline, PubMed and Google Scholar databases was performed without being limited by the time frame of available publications on the forms of physiotherapy used in the treatment of endometriosis.

Risk factors for coexisting deep endometriosis for patients with recurrent ovarian endometrioma

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors for coexisting deep endometriosis (DE) in patients with recurrent ovarian endometrioma (OE).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 151 recurrent OE patients who had been diagnosed of OE but not DE at the time of their first surgery and then received a second surgery for recurrent endometriosis with or without DE. Their clinical characteristics at the time of the first and second surgeries were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify potential risk factors for coexisting DE in patients with recurrent OE.

Results

Among the 151 recurrent OE patients, 46 were diagnosed of DE during the recurrent surgery and included in the DE group, while the remaining 105 patients were included in the non-DE group. In univariate analysis, there were significant differences in terms of uterine retroversion during the primary surgery and the follow-up time after the primary surgery between the DE and non-DE groups. The multivariate analysis also showed that both uterine retroversion and the follow-up time (≥5 years) were associated with the coexistence of DE during the recurrent surgery. The odds ratio (OR) for uterine retroversion was 3.72 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.62–8.53], and the OR for follow-up time (≥5 years) was 5.03 (95% CI 2.29–11.02).

Conclusions

Our study suggested that for recurrent OE patients, uterine retroversion during the first surgery and a follow-up time of at least 5 years are risk factors for the coexistence of DE in recurrent surgery, early prevention and full preparation before the recurrent surgery should be emphasized in these conditions.

The Role of Visceral Therapy in the Sexual Health of Women with Endometriosis during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Literature Review

Patients with endometriosis had limited possibilities for contemporary diagnosis and treatment during the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic. Surgeries that may have eliminated pain or restored fertility were postponed. Endometriosis may affect the vagina, peritoneum, bladder, or other organs outside the pelvis and impact women's sexual health, especially during pandemics. Holistic care of patients is crucial to improving their lives and sexual health. A scoping review was conducted to analyze the relevant literature in light of our experience in gynecology and physiotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Causal Evidence of Birth Weight and Female-Related Traits and Diseases: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Analysis

Objectives: A large meta-analysis indicated a more pronounced association between lower birth weight (BW) and diseases in women but less concern about the causality between BW and female-related phenotypes and diseases.

Methods: Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was used to estimate the causal relationship between two traits or diseases using summary datasets from genome-wide association studies. Exposure instrumental variables are variants that are strongly associated with traits and are tested using four different statistical methods, including the inverse variance weighting, MR-Egger, weighted median, and weighted mode in MR analysis. Next, sensitivity analysis and horizontal pleiotropy were assessed using leave-one-out and MR-PRESSO packages.

Results: The body mass index (BMI) in adulthood was determined by BW (corrected β = 0.071, p = 3.19E-03). Lower BW could decrease the adult sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) level (β = −0.081, p = 2.08E-06), but it resulted in increased levels of bioavailable testosterone (bio-T) (β = 0.105, p = 1.25E-05). A potential inverse effect was observed between BW and menarche (corrected β = −0.048, p = 4.75E-03), and no causal association was confirmed between BW and the risk of endometriosis, leiomyoma, and polycystic ovary syndrome.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that BW may play an important role and demonstrates a significant direct influence on female BMI, SHBG and bio-T levels, and menarche.

Conservative Management of Rectovaginal Deep Endometriosis: Shaving Should Be Considered as the Primary Surgical Approach in a High Majority of Cases

Deep endometriosis infiltrating the rectum remains a challenging situation to manage, and it is even more important when ureters and pelvic nerves are also infiltrated. Removal of deep rectovaginal endometriosis is mandatory in case of symptoms strongly impairing quality of life, alteration of digestive, urinary, sexual and reproductive functions, or in case of growing. Extensive preoperative imaging is required to choose the right technique between laparoscopic shaving, disc excision, or rectal resection. When performed by skilled surgeons and well-trained teams, a very high majority of cases of deep endometriosis nodule (>95%) is feasible by the shaving technique, and this is associated with lower complication rates regarding rectal resection. In most cases, removing a part of the rectum is questionable according to the risk of complications, and the rectum should be preserved as far as possible. Shaving and rectal resection are comparable in terms of recurrence rates. As shaving is manageable whatever the size of the lesions, surgeons should consider rectal shaving as first-line surgery to remove rectal deep endometriosis. Rectal stenosis of more than 80% of the lumen, multiple bowel deep endometriosis nodules, and stenotic sigmoid colon lesions should be considered as indication for rectal resection, but this represents a minority of cases.

Novel diagnostic options for endometriosis - Based on the glycome and microbiome

Background

Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological disease whose aetiology is still unknown. Despite its prevalence among women of reproductive age, the pathology of the disease has not yet been elucidated and only symptomatic treatment is available. Endometriosis has high latency and diagnostic methods are both limited and invasive.

Aim of review

The aim of this review is to summarise minimally invasive or non-invasive diagnostic methods for endometriosis and their diagnostic efficiencies. Furthermore, we discuss the identification and diagnostic potential of novel disease biomarkers of microbial or glycan origin.

Key scientific concepts of review

Great efforts have been made to develop minimally invasive or non-invasive diagnostic methods in endometriosis. The problem with most potential biomarker candidates is that they have high accuracy only in cases of severe disease. Therefore, it is necessary to examine other potential biomarkers more closely. Associations between gastrointestinal and genital tract microbial health and endometriosis have been identified. For instance, irritable bowel syndrome is more common in women with endometriosis, and hormonal imbalance has a negative impact on the microbiome of both the genital tract and the gastrointestinal system. Further interrogation of these associations may have potential diagnostic significance and may identify novel therapeutic avenues. Glycomics may also be a potent source of biomarkers of endometriosis, with a number of glyco-biomarkers already approved by the FDA. Endometriosis-associated microbial and glycomic profiles may represent viable targets for development of innovative diagnostics in this debilitating disease.

Hypothetical roadmap towards endometriosis: prenatal endocrine-disrupting chemical pollutant exposure, anogenital distance, gut-genital microbiota and subclinical infections

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis is a gynaecological hormone-dependent disorder that is defined by histological lesions generated by the growth of endometrial-like tissue out of the uterus cavity, most commonly engrafted within the peritoneal cavity, although these lesions can also be located in distant organs. Endometriosis affects ~10% of women of reproductive age, frequently producing severe and, sometimes, incapacitating symptoms, including chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia, among others. Furthermore, endometriosis causes infertility in ~30% of affected women. Despite intense research on the mechanisms involved in the initial development and later progression of endometriosis, many questions remain unanswered and its aetiology remains unknown. Recent studies have demonstrated the critical role played by the relationship between the microbiome and mucosal immunology in preventing sexually transmitted diseases (HIV), infertility and several gynaecologic diseases.

OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE

In this review, we sought to respond to the main research question related to the aetiology of endometriosis. We provide a model pointing out several risk factors that could explain the development of endometriosis. The hypothesis arises from bringing together current findings from large distinct areas, linking high prenatal exposure to environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals with a short anogenital distance, female genital tract contamination with the faecal microbiota and the active role of genital subclinical microbial infections in the development and clinical progression of endometriosis.

SEARCH METHODS

We performed a search of the scientific literature published until 2019 in the PubMed database. The search strategy included the following keywords in various combinations: endometriosis, anogenital distance, chemical pollutants, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, the microbiome of the female reproductive tract, microbiota and genital tract, bacterial vaginosis, endometritis, oestrogens and microbiota and microbiota-immune system interactions.

OUTCOMES

On searching the corresponding bibliography, we found frequent associations between environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals and endometriosis risk. Likewise, recent evidence and hypotheses have suggested the active role of genital subclinical microbial infections in the development and clinical progression of endometriosis. Hence, we can envisage a direct relationship between higher prenatal exposure to oestrogens or estrogenic endocrine-disrupting compounds (phthalates, bisphenols, organochlorine pesticides and others) and a shorter anogenital distance, which could favour frequent postnatal episodes of faecal microbiota contamination of the vulva and vagina, producing cervicovaginal microbiota dysbiosis. This relationship would disrupt local antimicrobial defences, subverting the homeostasis state and inducing a subclinical inflammatory response that could evolve into a sustained immune dysregulation, closing the vicious cycle responsible for the development of endometriosis.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS

Determining the aetiology of endometriosis is a challenging issue. Posing a new hypothesis on this subject provides the initial tool necessary to design future experimental, clinical and epidemiological research that could allow for a better understanding of the origin of this disease. Furthermore, advances in the understanding of its aetiology would allow the identification of new therapeutics and preventive actions.

Early life factors for endometriosis: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Despite its high prevalence and health burden, many aspects of endometriosis remain unclear, including risk factors and the underlying biological mechanisms. Exposures during early life, including in utero, are thought to play an important role in the subsequent onset of the condition. To date, however, much of the evidence from studies on early life exposures and diagnosed endometriosis appears mixed and difficult to assess.

OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE

This study aims to provide a systematic review of the epidemiologic evidence on early life factors associated with the subsequent diagnosis of endometriosis. In utero and early life exposures have previously been linked to a range of adult health outcomes, including infertility.

SEARCH METHODS

A systematic review of case-control, cross-sectional and cohort studies was conducted using the search terms 'endometriosis'[MeSH] AND ('risk factors'[MeSH] OR 'protective factors'[MeSH]) AND ('in utero', 'fetal', 'neonatal, 'perinatal', 'developmental origins', 'early life', 'childhood' OR 'life course') in Embase, PubMed and Scopus databases. The review included articles published in English until 10 June 2018 with original data from studies with diagnosed endometriosis. The quality of primary studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale by both authors independently. Due to the degree of inconsistency in the measurements and study methods, a qualitative assessment of findings was undertaken rather than meta-analysis.

OUTCOMES

The search retrieved 70 records without duplicates that contained 20 records on human case-control, cross-sectional or cohort studies, from which 11 papers/studies were selected based on their assessment score. The majority of studies found that women born with low birthweight (<2.5 kg or <5.5 lb) were more likely to be diagnosed with endometriosis. For other early life factors, the evidence is mixed or limited, with further research needed on the association of endometriosis with preterm birth, in utero exposure to diethylstilbestrol and to maternal smoking, passive smoking in early life, and infant formula feeding (compared with breastfeeding).

WIDER IMPLICATIONS

While the weight of evidence points to low birthweight as a risk factor for diagnosis of endometriosis, future research is warranted on this and other key early life exposures where the findings are mixed to provide more robust evidence and for insights on potential causal pathways. Such research, however, needs to address current methodological issues, such as the use of prospective data from large population-based studies, better diagnostic methods to confirm disease free status, more consistent definitions of variables and consideration of potential biological mechanisms to guide the analyses. The improvements will advance the future synthesis of evidence to support clinically relevant risk assessment for a more timely diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.

The risk of low birth weight and associated factors in West Bengal, India: a community based cross-sectional study

Background

Low birth weight (LBW) is a challenging multifaceted public health problem as it associated with infant mortality. Present study was undertaken to assess magnitude and risk factors associated with LBW in West Bengal, India. A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 2611 birth episodes in different districts of West Bengal using multi-stage stratified cluster sampling, followed by systematic random sampling methodology. Participants were interviewed by semi-structured questionnaires containing socio-demographic, pregnancy, and mothers’ health-related variables.

Results

This study revealed that 21.49% infants were born LBW. The risk of LBW was higher among women those age < 20 years and BMI < 18.5 kg/m2. The odd of giving LBW baby were higher among women having weight < 45 kg and height < 150 cm. Anemic (AOR 3.33) and hypertensive (AOR 1.69) women were more likely to give LBW baby. Preterm delivery (AOR 1.93) and history of chronic illness (AOR 2.09) were the determinants of LBW. The odd of LBW was higher among women who never followed ANC visit (AOR 1.35). The likelihood of giving LBW baby was higher among women who did not consume iron folic acid tablet and additional diet during pregnancy. More LBWs were observed among women who were from low socioeconomic family, rural residence, and illiterate.

Conclusions

This study provided scientific recommendations during preconception period which will help to target women who may potentially benefit from lifestyle and dietary interventions. To reduce LBW community specific strategies such as improving awareness of the community and utilization of existing maternal health services is essential.

In utero and early life exposures in relation to endometriosis in adolescents and young adults

OBJECTIVE

Endometriosis is a common gynecologic disorder often associated with severe pelvic pain and infertility with few known modifiable risk factors. We investigated whether in utero and early life exposures are associated with surgically diagnosed endometriosis among adolescents and young adults.

STUDY DESIGN

This case-control study, including 295 laparoscopically-confirmed endometriosis cases and 309 population-based controls aged <25 years, was conducted using data from The Women's Health Study: From Adolescence to Adulthood which enrolled participants from 2012 to 2018. Information on in utero and early life factors were collected using a modified WERF EPHect questionnaire at enrollment, including their mother's age at delivery, birthweight, gestation length, exposure to smoking in utero and secondhand smoke during childhood up to age 13, and if the participant was breastfed.

RESULTS

Median age at enrollment was 17 years (range 12-24) in cases and 22 years (range 7-24) in controls, with 83 % and 68 % non-Hispanic whites, respectively. The majority of cases (95 %) were rASRM stage I or II at diagnostic surgery. Exposure to breastfeeding in early life was associated with lower odds of endometriosis diagnosis (OR = 0.39, 95 % CI = 0.21-0.74). Exposure to secondhand smoke during childhood due to maternal smoking was associated with increased odds of endometriosis diagnosis (OR = 2.70, 95 % CI = 1.11-6.60).

CONCLUSIONS

Among adolescents and young adults, our data suggest exposures to breastfeeding in early life and secondhand smoke during childhood may be associated with endometriosis risk, providing insight into etiologic pathways to be explored in this young population.

Deep endometriosis: The place of laparoscopic shaving

Deep endometriosis (DE) is considered to be one of the most challenging conditions to manage, especially when it invades surrounding organs like the rectum. Surgical excision of deep rectovaginal endometriosis is required when lesions are symptomatic, impairing bowel, urinary, sexual, and reproductive functions, or if they evolve. Preoperative radiological examination should be extensive to determine the appropriate surgery: laparoscopic shaving, disc excision, or rectal resection. We demonstrated that in the hands of experienced surgeons, rectal shaving is possible for DE in more than 95% of cases, with low complication rates compared to rectal resection. Shaving and bowel resection are associated with comparable recurrence rates. As shaving is indicated whatever the size of deep lesions, surgeons should first consider rectal shaving to remove DE. Bowel resection should only be performed in case of major rectal stenosis (>80%), multiple and/or posterior rectal lesions and stenotic sigmoid colon lesions.

Early-life factors, in-utero exposures and endometriosis risk: a meta-analysis

This meta-analysis aimed to offer a general picture of the available data on the effects of early-life factors on the risk of developing endometriosis in adult life. An advanced, systematic search of the online medical databases PubMed, EMBASE and CINAHL was limited to full-length manuscripts published in English in peer-reviewed journals up to February 2019. Log of relative risk (RR) was employed to calculate the pooled effect sizes using both fixed and random effects modelling and I-squared tests to assess heterogeneity. Funnel plots were used to investigation publication bias. The meta-analysis was registered in PROSPERO (ID CRD42019138668). Six studies that included a total of 2360 women affected by endometriosis were analysed. The pooled results showed that the risk of developing endometriosis in adult life was significantly increased by being born prematurely (logRR 0.21, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.40), having a low birthweight (logRR 0.35, 95% CI -0.15 to 0.54), being formula-fed (logRR 0.65, 95% CI -0.35 to 0.95) and having been exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero (logRR 0.65, 95% CI 0.26 to 1.04. Among intrauterine and early neonatal exposures, prematurity, birthweight, formula feeding and DES were risk factors for the development of endometriosis in adult life.

Associations of perinatal characteristics with endometriosis: a nationwide birth cohort study

BACKGROUND

Perinatal characteristics are associated with subsequent risk of several chronic diseases. Previous studies regarding endometriosis were based on small samples and retrospective data and were limited by unmeasured confounding bias, leading to conflicting and inconclusive findings. We investigated the associations of maternal and birth characteristics with risk of endometriosis among Swedish women of reproductive age.

METHODS

This total-population register-based cohort study consisted of 628 312 singleton women born in Sweden between 1973 and 1987, who were followed for diagnosed endometriosis from age 15 years until the end of 2012. Multivariable Cox regression was applied to examine associations with perinatal characteristics. Residual unmeasured confounding was assessed through within-family and E-value analyses.

RESULTS

During follow-up, 8262 women received an endometriosis diagnosis. There were clear dose-response/linear associations of endometriosis with lower maternal education, endometriosis in the mother [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 2.24, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.04-2.46], maternal smoking during pregnancy (aHR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.04-1.33 for moderate smoker and aHR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.18-1.57 for heavy smoker vs non-smoker), lower birthweight, and lower birthweight-for-gestational age (aHR: 0.93 per standard deviation increase, 95% CI: 0.91-0.95). Within-family and E-value analyses suggested that these perinatal characteristics are robust predictors of the incidence of endometriosis. We also found that an estimated 26% of the association between maternal smoking and early-onset endometriosis could be explained by birthweight-for-gestational age.

CONCLUSION

This study finds support for fetal origins of endometriosis, in that exposure to adverse environment or restricted development during the perinatal period may increase the risk. Further research is needed to provide an understanding of the underlying mechanisms.

Birth weight, childhood body mass index and height and risks of endometriosis and adenomyosis

Background: Body size in adult life is likely associated with risks of endometriosis and adenomyosis, yet little is known about associations with body size earlier in life.Aim: To examine whether birth weight, childhood body mass index (BMI) and height are associated with risks of endometriosis and adenomyosis.Subjects and methods: From the Copenhagen School Health Records Register, 171,447 girls born 1930-1996, with measured weights and heights at ages 7-13 were included. Outcomes were obtained from health registers. Cox regressions were performed to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).Results: During follow-up, 2149 endometriosis cases and 1410 adenomyosis cases were diagnosed. Childhood BMI was inversely associated with endometriosis (HR = 0.92 [95% CI: 0.88-0.96] per z-score at age 7). In contrast, childhood height was positively associated with endometriosis (HR = 1.09 [95% CI: 1.05-1.14] per z-score at age 7). Associations with childhood body size did not differ by endometriosis location. Childhood BMI and height had limited associations with adenomyosis. Birth weight was not associated with endometriosis or adenomyosis.Conclusion: Lean and tall girls are more often diagnosed with endometriosis, but not adenomyosis. These findings suggest that indicators of endometriosis risk are already apparent at early ages.

Is Stress a Cause or a Consequence of Endometriosis?

Clinical studies clearly indicate that endometriosis is a condition associated with high levels of chronic stress. The stress intensity correlates with pain severity and disease extension. However, it is unknown whether chronic stress represents a primary cause of endometriosis and, therefore, if avoiding or treating chronic stress may reduce the risk of developing endometriosis. Repeated, uncontrolled stress either before or after experimental endometriosis induction promotes disease mechanisms and accelerates lesion growth in rodents. Furthermore, patients with endometriosis have a heightened risk of other inflammatory and immune-related diseases, many of which have also been associated with stress. Here, we review the latest evidences regarding the relationship between chronic stress and endometriosis and discuss the potential bidirectional aspect of such association. Further research may clarify if endometriosis is a cause and/or a consequence of stress and whether stress-reducing therapies are effective to mitigate symptoms and slow down the development of endometriotic lesions.

Rethinking mechanisms, diagnosis and management of endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease defined as the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, which causes pelvic pain and infertility. This disease should be viewed as a public health problem with a major effect on the quality of life of women as well as being a substantial economic burden. In light of the considerable progress with diagnostic imaging (for example, transvaginal ultrasound and MRI), exploratory laparoscopy should no longer be used to diagnose endometriotic lesions. Instead, diagnosis of endometriosis should be based on a structured process involving the combination of patient interviews, clinical examination and imaging. Notably, a diagnosis of endometriosis often leads to immediate surgery. Therefore, rethinking the diagnosis and management of endometriosis is warranted. Instead of assessing endometriosis on the day of the diagnosis, gynaecologists should consider the patient's 'endometriosis life'. Medical treatment is the first-line therapeutic option for patients with pelvic pain and no desire for immediate pregnancy. In women with infertility, careful consideration should be made regarding whether to provide assisted reproductive technologies prior to performing endometriosis surgery. Modern endometriosis management should be individualized with a patient-centred, multi-modal and interdisciplinary integrated approach.

Female ponderal index at birth and idiopathic infertility

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an increased risk of developing non-transmittable diseases in adults subjected to adverse early developmental conditions. Metabolic and cardiovascular diseases have been the focus of most studies. Nevertheless, data from animal models also suggest early programming of fertility. In humans, it is difficult to assess the impact of the in utero environment retrospectively. Birthweight is commonly used as an indirect indicator of intrauterine development. This research is part of the ALIFERT study. We investigated a potential link between ponderal index at birth and female fertility in adulthood. Data from 51 infertile and 74 fertile women were analysed. BW was on average higher in infertile women, whereas birth length did not differ between the two groups; thus, resulting in a significantly higher ponderal index at birth in infertile women. Ponderal index at birth has been identified as a risk factor for infertility. These results suggest the importance of the intra-uterine environment, not only for long-term metabolic health but also for fertility.

Developmental origins of endometriosis: a Swedish cohort study

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis is a chronic condition affecting women of reproductive age and is associated with multiple health burdens. Yet, findings regarding its 'developmental origins' are inconsistent. We aimed to investigate the associations of birth characteristics with endometriosis. We also explored potential mediation by adult social and reproductive factors.

METHODS

This cohort study consisted of 3406 women born in Uppsala, Sweden, between 1933 and 1972. We used data from archived birth records and endometriosis diagnoses at ages 15-50 recorded in the national patient registers. Socioeconomic and reproductive characteristics were obtained from routine registers. HRs were estimated from Cox regression.

RESULTS

During the follow-up, 111 women have been diagnosed with endometriosis, and most cases are external endometriosis (ie, outside the uterus, n=91). Lower standardised birth weight for gestational age was associated with increased rate of endometriosis (HR 1.35 per standard deviation decrease; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.67). This increased rate was also detected among women with fewer number of live births (HR 2.38; 95% CI 1.40 to 4.07 for one child vs ≥2 children; HR 6.09; 95% CI 3.88 to 9.57 for no child vs ≥2 children) and diagnosed infertility problem (HR 2.00; 95% CI 1.10 to 3.61) prior to endometriosis diagnosis. All the observed associations were stronger for external endometriosis. However, no evidence was found that number of births was the mediator of the inverse association between standardised birth weight and endometriosis.

CONCLUSION

This study supports the developmental origins theory and suggests that exposure to growth restriction during the fetal period is associated with increased risk of endometriosis during reproductive years.

Oligo-anovulation is not a rarer feature in women with documented endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

To study the prevalence of oligo-anovulation in women suffering from endometriosis compared to that of women without endometriosis.

DESIGN

A single-center, cross-sectional study.

SETTING

University hospital-based research center.

PATIENT (S)

We included 354 women with histologically proven endometriosis and 474 women in whom endometriosis was surgically ruled out between 2004 and 2016.

INTERVENTION

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Frequency of oligo-anovulation in women with endometriosis as compared to that prevailing in the disease-free reference group.

RESULTS

There was no difference in the rate of oligo-anovulation between women with endometriosis (15.0%) and the reference group (11.2%). Regarding the endometriosis phenotype, oligo-anovulation was reported in 12 (18.2%) superficial peritoneal endometriosis, 12 (10.6%) ovarian endometrioma, and 29 (16.6%) deep infiltrating endometriosis.

CONCLUSION(S)

Endometriosis should not be discounted in women presenting with oligo-anovulation.

Factors associated with deep infiltrating endometriosis versus ovarian endometrioma in China: a subgroup analysis from the FEELING study

BACKGROUND

To compare potential factors associated with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) versus ovarian endometrioma (OMA) among endometriosis patients in China.

METHODS

A subgroup analysis of factors associated with DIE versus OMA was performed in Chinese women from the FEELING study. This study included 156 OMA patients and 78 DIE patients. Retrospective information on symptoms and previous medical history was collected via face-to-face interviews; patients also completed a questionnaire to provide information on current habits. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify potential factors that are associated with DIE versus OMA.

RESULTS

From univariate analysis, women who were married, at older age, had any siblings, prior pregnancy, or longer time since age at menarche on the day of visit were more likely to be diagnosed with DIE (P < 0.05). Also, the incidence of previous uterine surgery, menstrual and ovulatory disorders, deep dyspareunia, and gastrointestinal symptoms during menstruation were major factors that were significantly associated with the diagnosis of DIE (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that women with any siblings, gastrointestinal symptoms during menstruation, or eating a greater number of fruit/vegetables per day were more likely to be diagnosed with DIE. Meanwhile, eating organic food and experiencing stress were major factors that are associated with the diagnosis of OMA.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings provide additional information on the potential risk factors that are associated with DIE, compared with OMA among Chinese endometriosis patients. The results may help to better understand DIE versus OMA, and aid in earlier risk stratification and diagnosis of the patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT01351051 . Registered 10 May 2011.

The association between endometriosis and the risk of LBW: A meta-analysis

Background:

Many observational services have been conducted to evaluate the risk factors of low birth weight, but the results showed no consistency. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis to investigate the association between endometriosis (body mass index) and the risk of low birth weight.

Methods:

Relevant works that were published in major international electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, SciELO, and Cochrane were systematically searched until February 2018. Begg’s and Egger’s tests were used to determine publication bias in included studies. The random-effects model was carried out to determine the odds ratio.

Results:

A meta-analysis of the 12 studies proposed a significant association between endometriosis and the risk of low birth weight (odds ratio = 1.34, 95% confidence interval = 1.08–1.60). The subgroup analysis was carried out based on the design, adjusted form, and use of assisted reproductive technology in studies. The pooled results based on subgroup analysis in case–control and cohort studies were 1.46 (0.79–2.12) and 1.32 (1.02–1.62), respectively. There was significant correlation between endometriosis and low birth weight in cohort studies. Also, heterogeneity was not reported among studies in the subgroup based on adjusted form. There was no significant correlation between endometriosis and low birth weight in studies using assisted reproductive technology methods

Conclusion:

The systematic review and meta-analysis showed that endometriosis increases the risk of low birth weight. Therefore, it is a risk factor for low birth weight.

Choosing the right surgical technique for deep endometriosis: shaving, disc excision, or bowel resection?

Deep endometriosis (DE) remains the most difficult endometriotic entity to treat. Medical treatment for DE can reduce symptoms but does not cure the disease, and surgical removal of the lesion is required when lesions are symptomatic, impairing bowel, urinary, sexual, and reproductive functions. Although several surgical techniques such as laparoscopic bowel resection, disc excision, and rectal shaving have been described, there is no consensus regarding the choice of technique or the timing of surgery. Our review of publications reporting results and complications of surgery for rectovaginal DE reveals a relatively higher complication rate after bowel resection compared with shaving and disc excision, especially for rectovaginal fistulas, anastomotic leakage, delayed hemorrhage, and long-term bladder catheterization. Data show that shaving is feasible even in advanced disease. The risk of immediate complications after shaving and disc excision is probably lower than after colorectal resection, allowing for better functional outcomes. The presumed higher risk of recurrence related to shaving has not been demonstrated. For these reasons, surgeons should consider rectal shaving as a first-line surgical treatment of rectovaginal DE, regardless of nodule size or association with other digestive localizations. When the result of rectal shaving is unsatisfactory (rare cases), disc excision may be performed either exclusively by laparoscopy or by using transanal staplers. Segmental resection may ultimately be reserved for advanced lesions responsible for major stenosis or for several cases of multiple nodules infiltrating the rectosigmoid junction or sigmoid colon.

Progress in the diagnosis and management of adolescent endometriosis: an opinion

Increasing evidence indicates that early onset endometriosis (EOE), starting around menarche or early adolescence, may have an origin different from the adult variant, originating from neonatal uterine bleeding (NUB). This implies seeding of naïve endometrial progenitor cells into the pelvic cavity with NUB; these can then activate around thelarche. It has its own pathophysiology, symptomatology and risk factors, warranting critical management re-evaluation. It can also be progressive, endangering future reproductive capacity. This variant seems to be characterized by the presence of ovarian endometrioma. Today, the diagnosis of endometriosis in young patients is often delayed for years; if rapidly progressive, it can severely affect pelvic organs, even in the absence of serious symptoms. Given the predicament, great attention must be paid to symptomatology that is often non-specific, justifying a search for new, simple, non-invasive markers of increased risk. Better use of modern imaging techniques will aid considerably in screening for the presence of EOE. Traditional laparoscopy should be limited to cases in which imaging gives rise to suspicion of severity and a stepwise, minimally invasive approach should be used, followed by medical treatment to prevent recurrence. In conclusion, EOE represents a condition necessitating early diagnosis and stepwise management, including medical treatment.

Neonatal uterine bleeding as a biomarker for reproductive disorders during adolescence: a worldwide call for systematic registration by nurse midwife

Neonatal uterine bleeding (NUB) occurs in approximately 5% of newborns and is generally considered to be of little clinical significance. However, the real clinical importance of this condition and its long-term implications remain to be determined. The reason why NUB is rare despite high circulating levels of progesterone can be attributed to a progesterone resistance present in a majority of neonates. Recent work indicates that NUB represents a significant biomarker for events that can occur later-on during adolescence. Indeed, clinical studies have shown that "neonatal menstruation" constitutes a sign of fetal distress during late pregnancy, reflecting a stage of endometrium development that may subsequently have an impact on the reproductive life of the adolescent and the young adult. Via retrograde flow, NUB can cause endometrial stem/progenitor cells to arrive into the pelvic cavity and survive there, dormant underneath the peritoneal surface, until menarche activates them. Indeed, there is both clinical and epidemiological evidence of a link between NUB and adolescent endometriosis. In addition, if progesterone resistance persists till the onset of menarche, in case of an early teen pregnancy, it can result in a disorder of deep placentation. Therefore, we propose that NUB should be carefully recorded so that prospective studies can examine its links with reproductive disorders in adolescence and beyond.

Effect of Natural Cycle Endometrial Preparation for Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer in Patients with Advanced Endometriosis

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of natural cycle (NC) endometrial preparation for frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) in women with advanced endometriosis.

Material/Methods

This retrospective study included 179 patients with stage III–IV endometriosis who underwent 233 FET cycles at a tertiary care academic reproductive medical center between March 2011 and August 2013 (group A). The control group included 258 patients with tubal factor infertility who underwent 300 FET cycles (group B). Both groups were prepared for FET using a NC protocol. Rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy, live birth, ongoing pregnancy, miscarriage, and pregnancy complication were recorded.

Results

The implantation rate (A: 36.0%, B: 30.4%, P=0.06), the pregnancy rate (A: 50.2%, B: 45.3%, P=0.263), and the live birth rate (A: 39.91%, B: 39.0%, P=0.428) were similar between the stage III–IV endometriosis and tubal factor infertility groups. No differences were observed in ongoing rates of pregnancy, miscarriage, and pregnancy complications, independent of endometriosis severity. No congenital birth defects were found. When high-quality embryos are transferred, pregnancy results were not affected by active endometriosis. Although severe endometriosis did not affect birth rate, higher frequencies of premature delivery (mean gestational age A: 37 weeks, B: 38.3 weeks, P=0.044) and low birth weight were observed (<2500 g A: 26.4%, B: 16.6%, P=0.047).

Conclusions

There was no difference in pregnancy outcomes between patients with endometriosis and those with tubal infertility. Pregnancy outcomes in patients with endometriosis were not affected by endometriosis severity. Pregnancy outcomes were not affected by active endometrial cyst.

Comparative, open-label prospective study on the quality of life and sexual function of women affected by endometriosis-associated pelvic pain on 2 mg dienogest/30 µg ethinyl estradiol continuous or 21/7 regimen oral contraceptive

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of a continuous regimen combined oral contraceptive (COC) containing 2 mg dienogest and 30 µg ethinyl estradiol (DNG/EE) compared to a 21/7 regimen on the quality of life (QoL) and sexual function in women affected by endometriosis-associated pelvic pain.

METHODS

Sixty-three women constituted the Study group treated with DNG/EE COC continuous regimen; 33 women were given DNG/EE COC in a 21/7 regimen. To define the endometriosis-associated pelvic pain, the Visual Analogic Scale was used. The Short Form-36, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS) were used to assess QoL, sexual function and sexual distress, respectively. The study included two follow-ups.

RESULTS

At 3 and 6 months of treatment there was an improvement in pain of the Study group (p < 0.001). The Control group underwent pain improvement at the second follow-up (p < 0.05). At the first and the second follow-ups, the Study group reported QoL improvements in all categories (p < 0.001). The Control group reported QoL improvements in all categories at the second follow-up (p < 0.05). At the first and the second follow-ups of the Study group, the FSFI total score had risen (p < 0.001), and the FSDS score had dropped (p < 0.001). An improvement of the FSFI score and a reduction of the FSDS score of the Control group was observed at the second follow-up (p < 0.001), but not at the first follow-up (p = NS).

CONCLUSIONS

Women on DNG/EE COC continuous regimen reported a reduction of endometriosis-associated pelvic pain and there was an improvement of their sexual activity and their QoL that was better than the DNG/EE 21/7 conventional regimen.

Optimal uterine anatomy and physiology necessary for normal implantation and placentation

The authors review aberrations of uterine anatomy and physiology affecting pregnancy outcomes with IVF. In the case of endometriosis and hydrosalpinx, pathologies outside of the uterus alter the uterine endometrium. In the case of endometriosis, Dominique de Ziegler outlines the numerous changes in gene expression and the central role of inflammation in causing progesterone resistance. With endometriosis, the absence of ovarian function inherent in deferred transfer, with or without a more lengthy suppression of ovarian function, appears to be sufficient to restore normal function of eutopic endometrium. Because laparoscopy is no longer routine in the evaluation of infertility, unrecognized endometriosis then becomes irrelevant in the context of assisted reproductive technology. With hydrosalpinx and submucus myomas, the implantation factor HOXA-10 is suppressed in the endometrium and, with myomas, even in areas of the uterus not directly affected. Daniela Galliano reviews various uterine pathologies, the most enigmatic being adenomyosis, where the endometrium also manifests many of the changes seen in endometriosis and deferred transfer with extended suppression appears to provide the best outcomes. Ettore Cicinelli's group has extensively studied the diagnosis and treatment of endometritis, and although more definitive diagnosis and care of this covert disorder may await techniques such as sequencing of the endometrial microbiome, it undoubtedly is an important factor in implantation failure, deserving our attention and treatment.

Clinical significance of neonatal menstruation

Past studies have clearly shown the existence of a spectrum of endometrial progesterone responses in neonatal endometrium, varying from proliferation to full decidualization with menstrual-like shedding. The bleedings represent, similar to what occurs in adult menstruation, a progesterone withdrawal bleeding. Today, the bleeding is completely neglected and considered an uneventful episode of no clinical significance. Yet clinical studies have linked the risk of bleeding to a series of events indicating fetal distress. The potential link between the progesterone response and major adolescent disorders requires to be investigated by prospective studies.