General Information About Endometriosis
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is when cells that normally should only be found inside the uterus and are shed every month during menstruation implant themselves in organs outside the uterus (abdominal cavity, ovaries), causing bleeding and adhesions there as well.
When this tissue located outside the uterus bleeds into the ovaries, the blood cannot be expelled and forms a cyst. Because the color and consistency of the old, accumulated blood inside resembles melted chocolate, it is medically called an 'Endometrioma' or commonly a 'Chocolate Cyst'.
Severe groin (pelvic) pain during menstrual periods that does not respond to painkillers, deep pain during sexual intercourse, chronic fatigue, and difficulty during bowel movements or urination.
Yes. Over time, these inflammatory bleeding episodes outside the uterus can cause blockages in the fallopian tubes, a decrease in ovarian reserve, and adhesions between organs, making natural pregnancy difficult.
Cysts in the ovaries are detected during an ultrasonographic examination by a gynecologist. The gold standard method for a definitive diagnosis and to see the extent of the disease within the abdomen is Laparoscopy (minimally invasive surgery with a camera).
Birth control pills or hormone suppressants are used to control the pain and stop the cyst from growing. In cases where the symptoms are severe or a pregnancy is planned, surgical (laparoscopic) removal of the cysts is preferred.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
