Endometriosis - Complications

Of additional concern are studies suggesting that women with endometriosis have a higher risk for other cancers, particularly for early-onset breast cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). On a somewhat encouraging note, in one 2002 study, among all the cancers, including breast and ovarian, the only one significantly associated with endometriosis was NHL.

Emotional Effects

The emotional effect of severe endometriosis can be almost as devastating as the pain. It can effect marriages and work. In one survey conducted by the Endometriosis Association, patients reported the following emotional effects from this disease:

• 84% of patients reported feeling depressed during periods of pain.
• 75% felt irritable.
• More than half reported feelings of anxiety and anger.
• About 20% said they felt hopeless.

In one study, during the days around menstruation 30% of women with endometriosis increased their alcohol intake compared to 14% of women with other gynecological problems and only 9.5% of women with no gynecological disorders.

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