Is There a Link Between Endometriosis and Autoimmune Diseases?

This thought first crossed my mind as I began to learn more about endometriosis. The reason is simple: when I compare the long-term suffering experienced by people with autoimmune diseases to those with endometriosis, I see a lot of similarities.

In my subjective opinion, if endometrium-like tissue—produced by the body's own cells—can be dysfunctional, it behaves much like cancer cells: as if it has a mind of its own. Similar to autoimmune diseases, these cells seem to self-sabotage the body.

Here’s the twist: a thought remains just a thought until it is spoken, acted upon, or investigated. Then, on May 3rd, 2025, I came across an article titled “Endometriosis and Immune Disease Link, Study Shows” (BBC article). If you're interested, I highly encourage you to read this article—along with many others that have made headlines in April 2025. I believe that with more research comes better progress in both treatment and diagnosis of endometriosis.

This is what stood out to me:

"Women with endometriosis are at a significantly higher risk of developing a range of autoimmune diseases," new research has shown.

An Oxford University study has found a genetic link between autoimmune diseases and endometriosis. Women living with endometriosis—often called Endo Warriors—have a 30–80% increased risk of developing autoimmune conditions.

What I also appreciated in the article was the emphasis on two of the most prominent symptoms of endometriosis: pain and extreme fatigue. Emphasis on extreme. Sadly, I've been experiencing this fatigue myself lately, and it caught me off guard. I had been doing so well managing my endometriosis—then, out of nowhere, it felt like I was hit by a ton of bricks. This past week, it got so bad that I would pass out if I rested my head for even just two minutes. Fatigue is a challenge many Endo Warriors face. Often, we have to push through the day, trying not to make mistakes at work, forget pots on the stove, or zone out when our loved ones are talking to us.

This study shows that women with endometriosis have a 30–80% higher risk of developing an autoimmune disease. Whether you see this as a positive or negative discovery is up to you. On one hand, it's difficult to hear that we may be genetically predisposed to autoimmune diseases. On the other hand, this link could open doors to improved diagnosis and treatment options.

Which side do you choose to focus on?

Let’s try to stay positive, Endo Warriors. Your mental load can affect your pain levels just as much as physical overexertion.

Wishing you a flare-free day!