Chocolate Cysts, Explained!

Chocolate Cysts are ovarian cysts filled with old menstrual blood and tissue. They’re also called ovarian endometriomas. But the name of Chocolate Cysts came from their brown, chocolate-like appearance. 

How Are Chocolate Cysts Diagnosed?

Endometriomas or Chocolate Cysts are usually found in the ovary, fallopian tubes, or nearby organs, such as the bladder. 

As Chocolate Cysts sometimes exist without symptoms or with symptoms that seem like regular pain, symptoms alone are not sufficient to diagnose chocolate cysts.

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at As-Salam International Hospital provides you with an ultrasound of the uterus and ovaries and other tests to detect the presence of chocolate cysts and treat them at an early stage.

Chocolate Cysts Symptoms

As-Salam International Hospital is raising awareness about the symptoms of chocolate cysts to help you get medical help when needed.

Common symptoms of chocolate cysts include:

  • Painful, crampy periods

  • Unexplained pelvic pain between periods

  • Digestive issues

  • Painful bowel movements

  • Heavy menstrual periods

  • Difficulty getting pregnant or infertility 

Chocolate Cysts can exist for a long time without notable symptoms, the appearance of symptoms is not related to the size of the cysts, so periodic examination is crucial to detect and treat chocolate cysts at an early stage.



Chocolate Cysts Treatments

Surgery is not the only choice when treating chocolate cysts.

Most chocolate cysts don't require surgical removal and doctors may recommend medication that inhibits ovulation, such as the birth control pill. This can help control pain and slow the growth of cysts, and then these cysts can be removed using laparoscopy.

The OB-GYN department at As-Salam International Hospital can provide you with all diagnosing and treatment methods of chocolate cysts.


Margerite Botros