Can Endometriosis Kill You?

Endometriosis is a chronic condition affecting around 1 in 10 women globally, often causing pelvic pain, infertility, and fatigue. But one question continues to trouble many: can endometriosis kill you?

While endometriosis itself is not classified as a fatal disease, it can lead to life-altering complications and—in extremely rare cases—contribute to health risks that impact long-term survival.

Understanding Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the womb. These endometrial-like cells can appear on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, diaphragm, and even lungs.

This tissue responds to the menstrual cycle by thickening and bleeding, just like uterine lining, but has no way to exit the body. Over time, this leads to chronic inflammation, scar tissue (adhesions), and cysts known as endometriomas.

Is Endometriosis a Fatal Disease?

By itself, endometriosis is not considered a fatal condition. Most women with endometriosis have a normal life expectancy when the condition is properly managed.

However, the disease may contribute to serious complications or be associated with an elevated risk of certain conditions, which in rare circumstances could impact survival.

Rare but Serious Complications

• Frozen pelvis: Severe adhesions can immobilise pelvic organs, causing intense pain and urinary/bowel obstruction.
• Endometriosis of the lungs or diaphragm: Thoracic endometriosis may lead to pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or haemothorax (blood in the chest), which require emergency intervention.
• Ovarian endometriomas: Cysts on the ovary can rupture, become infected, or impact fertility. Ruptures may cause internal bleeding.
• Infertility and pregnancy complications: Women with endometriosis have increased risks of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and preterm labour.

Can Endometriosis Increase Risk of Death?

Emerging research has suggested that women with endometriosis may face a slightly higher risk of early death compared to those without the condition. One large cohort study involving over 100,000 women showed a 31% increased risk of death before age 70 in women with a history of endometriosis.

This does not mean endometriosis directly causes death. Rather, the increased risk appears to be linked to associated conditions such as:

• Gynaecologic cancers (e.g., rare endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer)
• Neurological or respiratory conditions
• Cardiovascular disease

Chronic systemic inflammation, immune dysfunction, delayed diagnosis, and surgical complications may all contribute to this elevated risk.

Link Between Endometriosis and Cancer

Although rare, endometriosis has been associated with an increased risk of certain types of cancer:

• Clear cell and endometrioid ovarian cancer: Most common cancer types associated with endometriosis
• Endometriosis-associated adenocarcinoma: Rare, but may occur in cases of long-standing disease

Despite these connections, the absolute lifetime risk of developing cancer from endometriosis remains low. Routine monitoring and early detection reduce the chance of serious complications.

Mental Health Impacts

Aside from physical health, endometriosis significantly affects mental wellbeing. Studies show women with endometriosis are more likely to experience:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Chronic fatigue and stress

These challenges are often compounded by delays in diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and the invisible nature of the disease, which can lead to feelings of isolation or disbelief from others.

How to Prevent Complications

1. Early Diagnosis

Endometriosis is often delayed in diagnosis—averaging 7 to 10 years from symptom onset. The sooner it is identified, the easier it is to control progression.

2. Pain Management

NSAIDs and hormone therapy (birth control pills, progestin, GnRH analogues) are used to manage pain and suppress endometrial growth.

3. Surgery When Necessary

Laparoscopic surgery can remove adhesions or endometriomas, improving pain and fertility outcomes. However, repeat surgeries may increase complications.

4. Monitor Rare Symptoms

Seek immediate help if experiencing severe chest pain, breathlessness during menstruation, or sudden pelvic pain. These may indicate rare but serious conditions like thoracic endometriosis or ruptured cysts.

Living with Endometriosis

Endometriosis can be unpredictable, but many women live full, healthy lives with appropriate treatment. Pain specialists, gynaecologists, nutritionists, and mental health professionals can form a multidisciplinary care team to support quality of life.

Internal Resources

• What is Endometriosis and How Does It Affect Women?
• Is Surgery the Only Treatment for Endometriosis?
• Menopause and Osteoporosis

Final Thoughts

To answer the question — can endometriosis kill you? — the direct answer is no, it is not considered a fatal disease. But, untreated or severe cases may increase the risk of life-altering complications and associated health conditions.

With early diagnosis, proper treatment, and ongoing monitoring, women with endometriosis can manage the condition and avoid severe consequences. Education, awareness, and support remain the keys to improving outcomes and quality of life.

FAQs

Can endometriosis become cancer?

Rarely. Some forms of ovarian cancer have been linked to long-term endometriosis, but the overall risk is low.

What are signs I should go to the hospital?

Severe pelvic pain, fainting, chest pain, or difficulty breathing during menstruation should prompt immediate medical attention.

Does endometriosis shorten life expectancy?

Most women live normal lives, but some studies suggest a slightly increased risk of early death linked to comorbidities.

Can endometriosis affect the lungs?

Yes. Thoracic endometriosis can cause lung collapse (pneumothorax), coughing blood, or chest pain, though it's rare.

Is it safe to get pregnant with endometriosis?

Many women conceive successfully, though infertility and miscarriage risks are higher. Fertility treatments may help.