 THE KEEPER AND THE KEEPER MOONCUP |
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Endometriosis
The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown but researchers have proposed number of theories, including the theory of retrograde menstruation, immune system malfunction, exposure to toxins (such as dioxin), and genetic factors.Research by the Endometriosis Association (EA) revealed a startling link between dioxin (TCCD) exposure and the development of endometriosis. Dioxin is a toxic chemical byproduct of pesticide manufacturing, bleached pulp and paper products (such as chemically treated disposable tampons and pads), and medical and municipal waster incineration. The EA discovered a colony of rhesus monkeys that had developed endometriosis after exposure to dioxin. 79% of the monkeys exposed to dioxin developed endometriosis, and in addition, the more dioxin exposure, the more severe the endometriosis.
The theory of retrograde menstruation is also known as "backward menstruation." Some people think that retrograde menstruation is when the blood flow goes back into the uterus when there is a blockage in the vagina from using internally worn menstrual products. This is not the case. In almost all women, some of the menstrual fluid flows backwards into the fallopian tubes from the uterus instead of leaving the body through the cervix and vaginal canal.
Since the fallopian tubes are open-ended (they are not joined to the ovaries, but open nearby), menstrual fluid can drop into the pelvic cavity. It is suspected that in women who experience endometriosis, the endometrial tissue contained in menstrual fluid sticks to whatever structures it lands on (such as the ovaries) and starts to grow.
Retrograde menstruation occurs in almost all women, but only 3-10% of menstruating women develop endometriosis. One theory suggests that the immune systems of some women allow endometriosis to develop by failing to control or stop the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.
Menstrual cups are worn low in the vaginal canal collecting the flow far away from the cervix. It is highly unlikey that menstrual cups would cause retrograde menstruation. Remember that retrograde menstruation does not even refer to the flow going upwards from the vagina into the cervix but actually from the uterus into the fallopian tubes. In this case, the actual form of feminine protection used would have no impact on retrograde menstruation.
We have had many customers over the years that suffer from severe endometriosis who have reported amazing success with menstrual cups and even some relief. Since endometriosis causes heavy bleeding, menstrual cups are able to support the heavy flows.
Menstrual cups are an ideal option.
For more information about endometriosis, you can contact the Endometriosis Association at:
8585 N 76th Place
Milwaukee, WI 53223
phone: 414-355-2200
fax: 414-355-6065
www.endometriosisassn.org