What is an endometrioma?

An endometrioma is endometriosis found on the ovary, usually in the form of a cyst (sometimes called a chocolate cyst). The ovary is the female reproductive organ where eggs are formed and female hormones produced.

A diagram of the female reproductive organs showing brown chocolate cysts on the ovaries
Endometriomas or ‘chocolate cysts’ are dark brown cysts which develop on the ovaries. Endometriomas are often a sign of more advanced endometriosis.

There are two ways to treat endometriomas. The right approach for a person can depend on a number of factors including the severity of their symptoms, whether both or only one ovary is affected, and whether fertility is an issue for them.

Draining the fluid out of the endometrioma
This approach means that no eggs are removed in the process but it does mean that the endometrioma is more likely to recur.

Remove the endometrioma completely
This approach reduces inflammation and makes the ovary healthier. Whilst some eggs will be lost, those left behind are more viable for pregnancy. If fertility is not an issue, it may be best to remove the endometrioma completely. The process of removing, or cutting out, an endometrioma is a very delicate one, so it should be performed by a specialist.

Read more about endometriosis and fertility here.