New Insights Reveal Endometriosis Impacts Multiple Body Systems Beyond Reproductive Health

Endometriosis, a condition affecting approximately 10% of women worldwide, involves the growth of uterine-like tissue outside the uterus, typically in the pelvic area. Traditionally viewed as a gynecological issue, recent research suggests that its effects may extend far beyond reproductive symptoms, influencing various systems in the body. A groundbreaking study conducted by Penn State University has demonstrated that endometriosis alters the function of the autonomic nervous system—the part responsible for involuntary bodily processes such as blood pressure regulation, digestion, and heart rate.

Published in the journal Hypertension, the study investigated how women with endometriosis respond to mild stressors, like cold water immersion and grip strength exercises. Surprisingly, women with endometriosis exhibited lower increases in blood pressure during these stress tests compared to women without the condition. This unexpected response indicates that the disease may impair neural feedback mechanisms, potentially explaining symptoms such as lightheadedness that many women experience.

The research highlights that even after surgical removal of lesions, these autonomic differences persist, suggesting the systemic impact of endometriosis. This diminished cardiovascular response could contribute to cardiovascular risk factors associated with endometriosis, including higher incidences of artery disease and diabetes. Consequently, this research advocates for a broader, systemic approach to diagnosing and managing endometriosis.

Furthermore, understanding these neural alterations opens the door to developing less invasive diagnostic tools. Currently, definitive diagnosis often requires surgery, but the study’s findings imply that routine assessments of blood pressure responses to stress could facilitate earlier detection, potentially reducing the diagnosis delay of over six years.

In terms of management, women with endometriosis may benefit from increased hydration and salt intake—under medical supervision—to counteract blood pressure abnormalities and prevent symptoms like dizziness during physical activity. Overall, this evolving research underscores the importance of viewing endometriosis as a complex, whole-body disorder that demands comprehensive treatment strategies.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-endometriosis-affects-women-bodies-previously.html