The impact of our research
As leaders in the field of genetics, we’ve harnessed our expertise to make major discoveries and unlock the mysteries of endometriosis.
For centuries, women’s endometrial pain was most likely dismissed as ‘hysteria’ – sentencing millions of women to madhouses, social isolation, and physical and psychological pain.
The condition is complex, exceedingly painful, and difficult to diagnose, making medical research a priority. By pinpointing the underlying biological mechanisms of endometriosis, we can develop better treatments and diagnostic tools.
QIMR Berghofer researchers have conducted a genome-wide study of 5,640 Australian, Japanese, and European women, to better understand what causes endometriosis.
We’ve identified four new gene regions linked to endometriosis.
We’re mapping genes to understand why women with endometriosis are more at risk of endometrial cancer, and identify the genetic and environmental risk factors.
About endometriosis
Endometriosis is an extremely painful disorder in which tissue similar to the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) starts growing in other areas of the body – usually around the ovaries or behind the uterus.
This new tissue behaves just like endometrial tissue. When the ovaries release oestrogen during the monthly menstrual cycle, the tissue responds by thickening, breaking down, and bleeding. However, the body has no way to expel this tissue, and it becomes trapped. This leads to irritation, inflammation, and eventually scarring.
Endometriosis can affect anyone with a female reproductive system. While we don’t fully understand what causes endometriosis, it could be impacted by genetics and hormonal imbalances. You could have a higher risk of developing endometriosis if you have a family history of the condition.
Symptoms can vary in severity, depending on where the endometriosis is in your body. They can include:
- painful periods
- abdominal or pelvic pain during or after sex, or when going to the toilet
- leg pain that sometimes gets worse over time
- heavy periods or irregular bleeding
- bloating
- tiredness, especially around the time of the period
- infertility.
Endometriosis cannot be prevented, and there is not yet a cure. Pain medication can help reduce symptoms and, in more severe cases, surgery to remove endometrial tissue can be an option.