They are part of a condition known asendometriosis.
Endometriomas are also called “chocolate cysts” because they are filled with dark brown menstrual blood.
When you have endometriosis, endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus and into other areas of the abdomen/pelvic region.
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This article explains the symptoms and causes of endometriomas.
It also describes some of the possible complications and how these cysts are treated.
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What Causes Endometriomas?
Retrograde menstruation may also contribute to endometriosis.
Ovarian endometriomas are found in up to 17% to 44% of women with endometriosis.
With endometriomas, retrograde menstruation results in endometrial tissue being trapped in the cysts, causing inflammation.
There is some evidence suggesting that anautoimmune responsecan contribute to endometriomas.
Symptoms of Endometriomas
Endometriomas may or may not cause symptoms.
When symptoms do occur, they are the same as the symptoms of endometriosis.
These may include:
How Big Do Endometriomas Get?
Endometriomas don’t usually grow larger than a few centimeters.
However, it is possible for them to grow larger than that.
Some can even become grapefruit-sized.
How Serious Is an Endometrioma?
Endometriomas are not typically dangerous, though they may cause complications.
Potential complications of an endometrioma include:
Rupture is a serious complication of endometriomas.
If you have these symptoms or think you may have a ruptured cyst, seek medical attention immediately.
Is an Endometrioma Cancerous?
In rare cases, a cancerous tumor may be misdiagnosed as an endometrioma.
Endometriomas and Infertility
Endometriomas are considered a serious threat to fertility.Endometriosis is closely linked with infertility.
As many as 50% of women with endometriosis and endometriomas have difficulty getting pregnant.
Among women who are infertile, about 30% have endometriosis.
Endometriomas can also interfere with fertility treatments and lead to additional complications.
A cyst can sometimes be felt during apelvic exam.
How Is an Endometrioma Treated?
Your gynecologist will develop a treatment plan for endometriomas depending on several factors.
Observation and Monitoring
Cysts that are not causing symptoms are usually not treated.
Instead, your healthcare provider may take a watch-and-wait approach.
Birth Control Medications
Endometriosis responds to fluctuations in the hormones progesterone and estrogen.
This helps the healthcare provider see and remove the cyst.
Discuss the procedure with your healthcare provider in advance to understand any potential effects on fertility.
Diet can affect inflammation.
Eating red meat on a regular basis increases the risk.
Prognosis
Ovarian endometriomas can be difficult to treat.
If ongoing symptoms of endometriomas are troubling, ask your gynecologist about treatment options.
Pelvic pain and painful periods associated with endometriomas are often managed with over-the-counter medications.
Other treatments are available to relieve symptoms.
However, even with successful treatment, it is possible for new endometriomas to form.
One study found a 15% to 55% recurrence rate after treatment.
Endometriomas can also hinder your fertility and may interfere with assisted reproductive treatments.
Endometriosis and endometriomas are influenced by hormones and can continue throughout your childbearing years.
Many women find menopause brings permanent relief from endometriosis and endometriomas.
Summary
Endometriomas are cysts that form on the ovaries when endometrial tissue grows on the ovaries.
An endometrioma can form in women who have endometriosis.
Symptoms of an endometrioma include painful periods and heavy menstrual bleeding.
While these cysts are rarely dangerous, they can cause fertility problems.
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