Endometriosis is most likely caused by which of the following?

Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, and one of the leading theories regarding its development is the retrograde menstruation hypothesis. This theory suggests that during menstruation, some menstrual blood flows backward through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity instead of exiting the body. When this occurs, the endometrial cells can implant in various areas within the peritoneal cavity, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the pelvic wall.

These displaced endometrial tissues remain hormonally responsive, meaning they react to the cyclical hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle. This responsiveness leads to the same proliferation and shedding that normal endometrial tissue would undergo, resulting in the inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation that are characteristic of endometriosis.

The other options do not accurately reflect the mechanisms associated with endometriosis. For example, obstruction in the fallopian tubes can lead to infertility but isn't a direct cause of endometriosis. Similarly, while inflammation can result from various causes, including infectious processes, it does not specifically outline how endometrial tissue is displaced or causes the condition itself. Finally, suggesting that endometrial tissue remains dormant in the uterus does not account