Endometriosis is a common condition that affects many women during their reproductive years. It occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often causing pelvic pain, painful periods, bloating, and fertility challenges.
Because some symptoms of endometriosis can overlap with more serious conditions, many women wonder whether endometriosis can increase the risk of cancer.
The relationship between endometriosis and cancer is complex, but understanding the facts can help women make informed decisions about their health.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows in areas such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, bladder, or pelvic lining. This tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, which can lead to inflammation, scarring, and chronic pain.
Symptoms may include:
- Pelvic pain
- Heavy or painful periods
- Pain during intercourse
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Fertility difficulties
- Bowel or bladder discomfort
The severity of symptoms can vary significantly between individuals.
Does Endometriosis Cause Cancer?
For the vast majority of women, endometriosis does not lead to cancer.
However, some research suggests that women with endometriosis may have a slightly increased risk of developing certain types of ovarian cancer compared to women without the condition. It is important to emphasise that the overall risk remains low.
Most women with endometriosis will never develop cancer.
Which Types of Cancer Have Been Linked to Endometriosis?
Studies have shown a possible association between endometriosis and specific ovarian cancer subtypes, including:
- Clear cell ovarian cancer
- Endometrioid ovarian cancer
Researchers are still investigating why this link exists. Chronic inflammation, hormonal factors, and genetic changes may all play a role.
Importantly, endometriosis itself is a benign condition, meaning it is not considered cancer.
Why Symptoms Can Sometimes Be Confusing
One of the challenges with endometriosis is that its symptoms can overlap with symptoms seen in some gynaecological cancers.
For example, both conditions may cause:
- Pelvic pain
- Bloating
- Abdominal discomfort
- Changes in bowel habits
- Fatigue
This overlap can sometimes make diagnosis more difficult, especially when symptoms change over time or become more severe.
When Should Symptoms Be Investigated Further?
Women with endometriosis should seek medical review if they notice:
- Sudden worsening of symptoms
- Persistent bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abnormal bleeding
- New pelvic masses
- Ongoing pain that does not respond to usual treatment
- Symptoms that continue after menopause
While these symptoms are often caused by non-cancerous conditions, they should still be properly assessed.
How Is the Risk Managed?
Most women with endometriosis do not require special cancer screening beyond routine medical care.
Management may include:
- Regular medical follow-up
- Monitoring ovarian cysts when necessary
- Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI
- Surgery in selected cases
- Symptom management strategies
If there is concern about abnormal findings or ongoing symptoms, patients may be referred for specialised Gynaecological Cancer Treatment assessment and investigation.
Family History and Genetic Risk
A strong family history of ovarian, breast, or uterine cancer may increase overall cancer risk independently of endometriosis.
In some cases, genetic counselling or testing may be recommended, particularly for women with BRCA mutations or Lynch syndrome.
Understanding individual risk factors can help guide long-term management decisions.
Endometriosis can have a significant impact on quality of life, but it is important to remember that cancer remains uncommon in women with the condition.
Although there may be a small increase in risk for certain ovarian cancers, most women with endometriosis will never develop cancer. Ongoing symptoms, changes in pain patterns, or new concerning symptoms should always be discussed with a healthcare professional to ensure appropriate assessment and care.