Endometriosis and ovarian cancer risk

Symptoms of endometriosis

Endometriosis symptoms can vary from mild to severe. The most common signs include:

Most commonly seen in younger women and those of childbearing age, symptoms of the disease include: 

• Pain in your lower tummy or back (pelvic pain) – usually worse during your period
• Period pain that stops you from doing your normal activities
• Pain during or after sex
• Pain when urinating or painful bowel movements during your period
• Feeling sick, constipated, having diarrhoea, or seeing blood in your urine during your period
• Difficulty getting pregnant

For more information about the symptoms of endometriosis and how it is treated visit its NHS Choices page.

It's important to note that the severity of the symptoms doesn't always correlate with the extent of the condition. Some women with mild endometriosis may experience intense pain, while others with more severe cases may have few symptoms.

How common is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is relatively common, affecting an estimated 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. Despite its prevalence, it often takes years to diagnose due to the wide variation in symptoms and their overlap with other conditions.

Diagnosing endometriosis

Getting an accurate diagnosis of endometriosis can be challenging, as symptoms often mimic other conditions. A similar experience to ovarian cancer symptoms and diagnosis.

Pelvic exams

During a pelvic exam, your doctor may feel for abnormalities, but this is not always effective in diagnosing endometriosis, especially in less severe cases.

Imaging tests

Ultrasounds or MRIs can help identify cysts caused by endometriosis, but they cannot definitively diagnose the condition.

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is the only way to confirm endometriosis. This minimally invasive surgery allows doctors to look inside the abdomen for abnormal tissue growth and take samples for testing.

Causes and risk factors for endometriosis

The exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown, but serval factors may increase your risk:

• Family history of endometriosis
• Early onset of menstruation
• Short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days)
• High levels of estrogen in the body
• Immune system disorders

Treatment for endometriosis

Treatment options for endometriosis focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. These can include medications, hormone therapy, or surgery.

HRT and endometriosis

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be used after menopause to manage symptoms, but for women with endometriosis, it can sometimes cause a return of symptoms. Your doctor will help balance the benefits and risks.

The link between endometriosis and ovarian cancer

There is ongoing research into the relationship between endometriosis and ovarian cancer. While endometriosis itself is not cancer, women with endometriosis may have a slightly increased risk of developing certain types of ovarian cancer.

Endometriosis vs. ovarian cancer - what’s the difference?

Endometriosis and ovarian cancer are different conditions. Endometriosis involves the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining outside the uterus, while ovarian cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the ovaries.

Does endometriosis increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer?

Yes, women with endometriosis are at a slightly higher risk of developing ovarian cancer, but this risk is still considered low.

1.3% of the general female population will develop ovarian cancer, compared to less than 2% of women who have endometriosis, so the difference is negligible.

The majority of women who have endometriosis will not get ovarian cancer, and most of those who do are usually diagnosed at an earlier stage and therefore have much better outcomes.

Regular monitoring and check-ups with your healthcare provider can help manage this risk.

Living with endometriosis

Living with endometriosis involves managing a variety of symptoms and maintaining your overall well-being.

Endometriosis pain

Endometriosis pain can be debilitating. Pain management strategies include:

Types of Pain

• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pain during periods
• Pain during sex
• Back and abdominal pain

Managing Pain

Pain relief options include over-the-counter pain relievers, hormone therapy, and in some cases, surgery to remove endometriosis tissue.

Managing fatigue

Fatigue is a common symptom of endometriosis. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle, getting enough sleep, and staying active can help manage feelings of exhaustion.

Diet

A healthy diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, may help reduce endometriosis symptoms. Some women find relief by avoiding processed foods, sugar, and caffeine.

Exercise

Exercise can help manage endometriosis by reducing inflammation, boosting mood, and improving overall health. Low-impact activities like yoga or swimming are often beneficial.

Mental health

Dealing with chronic pain and fertility issues can take a toll on mental health. Therapy, support groups, and mindfulness practices can be helpful in coping with the emotional challenges of endometriosis.

What should I do if I am concerned about the ovarian cancer risk associated with my endometriosis?

The most important thing is to be symptom-aware and to act on anything unusual quickly. Some of the symptoms of endometriosis are similar to ovarian cancer. The main symptoms of ovarian cancer are:

• Persistent stomach pain
• Persistent bloating
• Needing to wee more frequently or urgently
• Difficulty eating/feeling full more quickly 

Other things to look out for include a change in bowel habits (going more often, or less frequently), extreme tiredness for no obvious reason, and unexplained weight loss.

It is important to know what symptoms are normal for you and your endometriosis, and to ensure you see your GP if these change or become more severe. Find out more information about what to do if you are concerned.