Because chocolate cysts are a disease that occurs in the female reproductive system, menstrual pain… is considered a common warning sign. So, is the menstrual pain you are experiencing a symptom of a chocolate cyst? This is the answer that women like us need to know!!
What is a chocolate cyst?
It is a condition where the endometrial tissue grows abnormally and causes adhesions in the pelvic cavity. When menstrual blood flows backward instead of flowing out through the vagina, blood accumulates… forming a cyst that gradually enlarges. The blood inside is dark red, resembling chocolate.
Things to know… about “chocolate cysts”
- Chocolate cysts are caused by female hormones during the menstrual cycle, so they are often found in women of reproductive age.
- Although most chocolate cysts are 2-5 centimeters in size, they can grow as large as 20 centimeters.
- It is true that chocolate cysts are commonly found in the “ovaries,” but they can also occur in the uterus, large intestine, or the back of the fallopian tubes.
If you have these symptoms… you might have a chocolate cyst
- Abnormal menstrual pain
- Pelvic pain during or after sex
- Chronic pelvic bone pain
- Infertility
- Fever, nausea, vomiting
Menstrual pain… and chocolate cysts
Dr. Alain Joffe stated that frequent menstrual pain… which can be relieved by painkillers or heat patches indicates that the menstrual pain is still “normal”. However, if the pain suddenly occurs or increases in intensity to the point that daily activities cannot be performed, you should see a doctor immediately.
Chocolate cysts… can “rupture”!
If a chocolate cyst ruptures… it can lead to dangerous complications such as infection and pelvic pain, including bleeding, nausea, fever, and severe pain, which requires urgent treatment by a specialist.
Although the chance of a chocolate cyst developing into cancer is very low, if you have the above symptoms or suspect this condition, you should see a doctor for diagnosis. Because if left untreated until a “chocolate cyst rupture” occurs, the danger may be greater than you think!!