Can Endometriosis Cause Cancer?

Pelvic pain, bloating, or irregular periods can sometimes point to conditions like endometriosis or ovarian cysts. While these two are related to the reproductive system and often share similar symptoms, they are not the same condition.

Understanding the difference between them helps in getting the right diagnosis and timely treatment. In this blog, we will understand the Difference Between Endometriosis and Ovarian cysts

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. These tissues may attach to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or intestines and cause inflammation, pain, and fertility problems.

Key Features

• A chronic condition caused by hormonal and immune changes
• It can lead to scarring and adhesions in the pelvic organs
• May cause ovarian cysts known as endometriomas (chocolate cysts)

Common Symptoms

• Severe menstrual cramps
• Pain during intercourse
• Heavy or irregular bleeding
• Pelvic or lower back pain
• Infertility or difficulty conceiving

Types of Ovarian Cysts

1. Functional cysts – the most common type, formed during ovulation

• • Follicular cyst: forms when the follicle does not release an egg
    
  • Corpus luteum cyst: forms after the egg is released
    

2. Pathological cysts – may form due to abnormal cell growth

• • Dermoid cysts (contain tissue like hair or fat)
    
  • Cystadenomas (fluid or mucus-filled cysts)
    

3. Endometriomas – cysts caused by endometriosis, filled with old blood (often called chocolate cysts)

Common Symptoms

• Lower abdominal pain or pressure
• Bloating or fullness in the abdomen
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Pain during urination or bowel movements
• Sudden severe pain if a cyst ruptures or twists (ovarian torsion)

Yes. Endometriosis can lead to the formation of a special type of ovarian cyst called an endometrioma. These cysts contain old, dark blood and are sometimes referred to as “chocolate cysts.”

Endometriomas are a sign of advanced endometriosis (Stage 3 or Stage 4) and can cause:

• Severe pelvic pain
• Painful menstruation
• Difficulty in conceiving

Treatment for endometriomas often involves laparoscopic cyst removal to relieve pain and protect ovarian function.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the size, type, and severity of the condition as well as the patient’s fertility goals.

For Endometriosis

• Hormonal therapy to reduce or stop menstrual cycles and shrink lesions
• Pain management using anti-inflammatory medications
• Laparoscopic surgery to remove endometrial implants or cysts and restore fertility

For Ovarian Cysts

• Watchful waiting for small functional cysts that resolve naturally
• Hormonal therapy to prevent recurrence
• Surgical removal (laparoscopic cystectomy) for large, persistent, or complex cysts

At Horizon Prime Hospital, our specialists perform laparoscopic and fertility-preserving surgeries using advanced imaging and precision instruments to ensure faster recovery, minimal scarring, and excellent long-term outcomes.

Timely medical evaluation helps prevent complications such as cyst rupture, ovarian torsion, or chronic pelvic adhesions.

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.

4. 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.

While endometriosis and ovarian cysts can appear similar, they are different in origin and management. Endometriosis is a chronic condition that may cause ovarian cysts, while most cysts are temporary and harmless.  With expert evaluation and advanced laparoscopic care at Horizon Prime Hospital, Thane, women can find lasting relief and improved reproductive health.