Can Endometriosis Cause Cancer?
Can Endometriosis Cause Cancer?
Endometriosis is a common but often misunderstood condition that affects millions of women worldwide. It occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) starts growing outside the uterus, leading to inflammation, pain, and sometimes fertility problems.
One of the most frequently asked questions by patients is whether endometriosis can cause cancer. While the condition itself is not cancerous, certain studies have shown that it may be linked to a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer, especially in advanced stages.
Understanding Endometriosis
In endometriosis, tissue resembling the uterine lining grows on nearby organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or intestines. This tissue reacts to hormonal changes during each menstrual cycle, which can lead to bleeding, scarring, and adhesions.
Although it behaves like uterine tissue, it does not turn malignant in most cases. Endometriosis remains a benign condition, meaning non-cancerous. However, prolonged inflammation and hormonal changes caused by the disease can sometimes lead to changes in the affected cells, which may slightly increase cancer risk.
The Link Between Endometriosis and Cancer
Several medical studies have explored the relationship between endometriosis and certain types of cancers, especially ovarian cancer.
Here’s what current research tells us:
1. Slight Increase in Ovarian Cancer Risk
Women with long-standing or severe endometriosis have a small but measurable increase in the risk of developing specific types of ovarian cancer.
These include:
- Endometrioid ovarian cancer
- Clear cell ovarian cancer
The overall lifetime risk remains very low, but it is higher compared to women without endometriosis.
2. Severity and Duration Matter
Women with Stage 3 or Stage 4 endometriosis, especially those with large ovarian cysts (called endometriomas), appear to have a slightly higher risk. However, most women with endometriosis never develop cancer in their lifetime.
3. Hormonal and Genetic Factors
Oestrogen, the female hormone that stimulates endometrial tissue, plays a key role in both endometriosis and certain types of cancers. Some women also have genetic predispositions that make them more sensitive to hormonal changes, but this link is still being studied.
What Type of Cancer Is Linked to Endometriosis?
| Cancer Type | How It Is Related | Risk Level |
| Ovarian Cancer | Endometriosis, especially with ovarian cysts, may increase risk of endometrioid and clear cell subtypes. | Slightly elevated |
| Endometrial Cancer | Rarely linked, but hormonal imbalance from endometriosis may contribute in some cases. | Minimal |
| Colorectal Cancer | Deep infiltrating endometriosis affecting the bowel may mimic symptoms, but direct cancer risk is extremely low. | Very low |
Can Endometriosis Turn into Cancer?
Endometriosis itself does not transform into cancer. What happens in rare cases is that the chronic inflammation and hormonal environment around endometriotic tissue can lead to cellular changes in the nearby tissue over many years.
Such changes are uncommon and usually occur in women:
- Over the age of 45
- With long-standing, untreated endometriosis
- With large ovarian endometriomas
- Having a family history of ovarian or breast cancer
Even in these cases, the overall probability remains low.
Treatment Options for Endometriosis
Treatment focuses on pain relief, disease control, and fertility preservation. At Horizon Prime Hospital, treatment is tailored to each patient’s symptoms, severity, and pregnancy goals.
1. Medication
Used to manage pain and hormonal imbalance.
- Pain relievers: NSAIDs to ease cramps
- Hormonal therapy: Suppresses ovulation and limits endometrial growth
These medications reduce symptoms but may not be enough for severe cases with adhesions or cysts.
2. Laparoscopic Surgery
Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery is the gold standard for treating Stage 4 endometriosis.
During the procedure, the surgeon:
- Removes endometrial implants and scar tissue
- Excises or drains ovarian cysts
- Frees organs bound by adhesions
- Restores the normal pelvic structure
Benefits of laparoscopic surgery:
- Minimal pain and faster recovery
- Short hospital stay
- Preservation of fertility
- Lower recurrence rates
Our gynaecology and laparoscopic teams at Horizon Prime Hospital are experienced in advanced fertility-preserving endometriosis surgery, ensuring optimal outcomes.
3. Fertility Treatments
For women with fertility challenges, assisted reproductive techniques such as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) may be recommended post-surgery.
- Lifestyle and Supportive Care
- Follow an anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Manage stress with yoga or meditation.
- Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly.
- Join a support group to manage emotional well-being.
Key Takeaways
| Question | Answer |
| Is endometriosis a cancer? | No, it is a benign condition. |
| Can it increase the risk of cancer? | Slightly, especially for ovarian cancer. |
| Which cancer types are linked? | Endometrioid and clear cell ovarian cancers. |
| Can treatment lower the risk? | Yes, early diagnosis and management reduce complications. |
| Should I worry? | No, with regular check-ups, the risk remains very low. |
Conclusion
Endometriosis is a treatable, non-cancerous condition. While research shows a small link between endometriosis and certain ovarian cancers, the risk remains low and can be minimised through early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and appropriate treatment.
If you experience chronic pelvic pain, heavy periods, or difficulty conceiving, schedule a consultation with the expert gynaecologists at Horizon Prime Hospital, Thane. Our team provides compassionate, advanced, and evidence-based care to help you live pain-free and protect your reproductive health.
