Can Endometriosis Turn Into Cancer?

Can Endometriosis Turn into Cancer?

One of the most searched questions online is: can endometriosis turn into cancer? It’s a valid concern—especially for women already coping with the pain, fatigue, and emotional toll that endometriosis can bring.

Here’s the truth: endometriosis is a benign condition. That means it is not cancer, and for the overwhelming majority of women, it will not become cancer. However, let’s dive deeper into what this really means.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the womb, often affecting organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, bladder, or the lining of the pelvic cavity. This misplaced tissue still behaves like uterine lining—it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle.

However, unlike the lining of the uterus, which exits the body during menstruation, this displaced tissue has nowhere to go. The result is inflammation, scar tissue (adhesions), pain, and in some cases, infertility. Symptoms can vary, but common ones include:

• Chronic pelvic pain

• Heavy or irregular periods

• Painful intercourse

• Bloating and digestive issues

• Pain during urination or bowel movements

• Fatigue

Due to these often debilitating symptoms, women with endometriosis may face a long diagnostic journey. And once diagnosed, another question quickly arises: can endometriosis turn into cancer?

What Types of Cancer Are Linked?

When discussing whether endometriosis can turn into cancer, it’s important to specify which cancers might be involved. The two main types that have shown a potential association are:

1. Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Ovary

   • A rare but aggressive form of ovarian cancer

   • Sometimes found in areas previously affected by endometriosis

2. Endometrioid Carcinoma

   • A type of epithelial ovarian cancer

   • More common than clear cell carcinoma, and may also arise near endometriotic lesions

Again, these types are not caused by endometriosis, but may occur slightly more frequently in women with endometriosis than in the general population.

What You Can Do To Stay Safe

So, can endometriosis turn into cancer? Yes—but only in rare cases. The good news is that regular medical care can significantly reduce the risks. Here’s what you can do to take charge of your health:

1. Get Regular Gynaecological Check-ups

Routine visits with your gynaecologist can help detect any unusual changes early. If you have a history of endometriosis, let your doctor know so they can keep an eye out for suspicious symptoms or cysts.

2. Monitor Symptoms and Changes

Keep a log of your symptoms, especially if they change or worsen. Be honest with your doctor about pain, cycle irregularities, bloating, or new digestive issues.

3. Consider Imaging if Necessary

Ultrasounds, MRIs, or even laparoscopic evaluations can help your doctor assess the location and extent of endometriosis, as well as monitor for changes in cysts or lesions.

4. Ask About Hormonal Treatment

Hormonal therapies may help suppress the growth of endometrial-like tissue, reducing inflammation and possibly lowering cancer risk. Options include hormonal IUDs, birth control pills, or GnRH agonists.

5. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle

Though lifestyle changes won’t eliminate endometriosis, maintaining a healthy diet, staying active, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco may all contribute to better overall reproductive and immune health.

6. Discuss Genetic Screening if Indicated

If you have a strong family history of breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer, you may want to discuss genetic counselling or BRCA testing with your doctor.

📞 Need Help?

To speak with a compassionate and experienced specialist, contact Dr. Smita, Consultant Gynaecologist at KPJ Selangor Specialist Hospital, Shah Alam.

💬 WhatsApp us at +60165833302 to book an appointment and get the personalised care you deserve.

The Cancer Link—Fact vs. Fear

Although it is rare, research shows that less than 1% of women with endometriosis may develop certain types of ovarian cancer, such as clear cell carcinoma or endometrioid carcinoma. This risk is extremely low, but it has caused fear and confusion, especially when patients receive vague or incomplete information.

So to clarify: can endometriosis turn into cancer?

• In most cases, no.

• In very rare instances, yes—but it's not a direct transformation. Instead, the presence of endometriosis may slightly elevate the risk of certain ovarian cancers.

Researchers believe this link is more pronounced in cases where endometriosis is severe, long-standing, or affects the ovaries (ovarian endometriomas, sometimes called "chocolate cysts"). Even then, most women with endometriosis will never develop cancer.

It’s also worth noting that while the words "cancer" and "endometriosis" appearing in the same sentence can sound frightening, correlation is not causation. The mechanisms behind the potential cancer risk are still being studied, and no one fully understands why only a tiny fraction of women with endometriosis develop related cancers.

Final Takeaway

Let’s revisit the question: can endometriosis turn into cancer?

• Yes, in less than 1% of cases, certain types of ovarian cancer may be associated with endometriosis.

• No, for the vast majority of women, endometriosis is a benign condition that does not become cancer.

The most important thing you can do is to stay proactive. Don’t let fear dictate your journey—instead, arm yourself with accurate information and maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider.

If you or someone you love has endometriosis and is worried about cancer, talk to a gynaecologist. You deserve clarity, support, and the peace of mind that comes from having the right facts.