Does endometriosis increase cancer risk?

Yes, endometriosis is associated with increased cancer risk, with the strongest and most consistent evidence involving clear cell and endometrioid ovarian cancers. Studies have reported ovarian cancer risk increases up to tenfold in some groups compared with people without endometriosis, but endometriosis is benign, absolute risk remains low, and most people with it never develop cancer.

Evidence for links to other cancers, including endometrial cancer, is less consistent, and their absolute risks generally remain low; endometrial cancer starts in the uterine lining and is distinct from endometrioid ovarian cancer. Rarely, endometriosis tissue can become cancerous, including in the bowel, but leaving endometriosis untreated does not mean cancer will develop.

Deep infiltrating endometriosis and ovarian endometriomas can behave aggressively in the pelvis, distort anatomy, and share some molecular features with cancers without being malignant. These features can make treatment complex and may require advanced, organ-sparing surgical skill, especially when fertility preservation is a priority.

Individual risk assessment can include family history, whether genetic testing is appropriate, and evaluation of an ovarian mass, persistent one-sided pain, or new symptoms outside your usual pattern, none of which alone establishes cancer. If you’re concerned about your risk or imaging suggests an endometrioma or deep disease, you can contact our team for a consultation to review your history and imaging, clarify what applies to you, and discuss surgical options when needed.