Swedish Study Links Childhood Adversity to Higher Endometriosis Risk

A large Swedish study involving over 1.3 million women has found a significant association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and an elevated risk of being diagnosed with endometriosis later in life. The research identified 11 types of childhood adversity, including parental substance abuse, psychiatric disorders, violence exposure, and family instability, with exposure to violence showing the strongest link, nearly doubling the risk of developing endometriosis. The risk increased cumulatively with the number of adverse experiences, with women experiencing five or more ACEs having a 60% higher risk compared to those with none. Researchers suggest that early life stress may affect the immune system or pain sensitivity, potentially contributing to the development or diagnosis of endometriosis. While the study is observational and cannot confirm causation, it emphasizes the importance of holistic patient care and suggests that understanding childhood adversity could improve prevention and treatment strategies for endometriosis. This research underscores the long-term impact of early psychosocial stressors on women's gynecological health.