Does endometriosis cause overgrowth of other cells, such as fibroadenomas in the breasts?
This is a really thoughtful question, and you're not alone in noticing this connection. Endometriosis is driven largely by estrogen, which causes endometrial-like tissue to grow in places it shouldn't. Since estrogen also influences Show Full Answer
Does endometriosis cause overgrowth of other cells, such as fibroadenomas in the breasts?
This is a really thoughtful question, and you're not alone in noticing this connection. Endometriosis is driven largely by estrogen, which causes endometrial-like tissue to grow in places it shouldn't. Since estrogen also influences breast tissue development and changes, it's plausible that the same hormonal imbalances behind endo could contribute to other tissue changes in the body, including in the breasts. Some things worth knowing about breast changes and endometriosis:
- Hormonal fluctuations tied to your menstrual cycle can affect breast tissue, just as they affect endometrial lesions
- Breast pain is a recognized symptom that some people with endometriosis experience
- Persistent breast pain, lumps, or tissue changes are always worth monitoring closely with your care team
A MyEndometriosisTeam member shared: *"Hey so I was diagnosed with endo, fibroids and large multiple endometriomas in ovaries in January... Have faith, trust your body, and research lots."*
It's great that you already have a care team monitoring your breast growths. Since your endo diagnosis is new, it would be worth specifically raising this hormonal connection with your doctor, so they can look at the full picture together.
July 21