Will chocolate cysts affect pregnancy?

Chocolate cysts, also known as ovarian endometriosis cysts, may affect pregnancy. This type of cyst is formed when endometrial cells grow abnormally in the ovaries, bleed during the menstrual cycle, and form cysts over time.

Chocolate cysts may cause ovarian dysfunction, reduce the number and quality of antral follicles, and affect ovulation. At the same time, the presence of cysts may cause adhesions in the fallopian tubes, hinder the normal delivery of eggs, and thus interfere with the conception process.

Chocolate cysts may also cause pelvic adhesions and increase the risk of infertility. If the old blood in the chocolate cyst ruptures, it will flow out and may cause adhesions to surrounding tissues, including the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus. This adhesion will further affect the transportation and implantation of the fertilized egg.

However, not all patients with chocolate cysts will be infertile. Some patients with milder cases and no severe adhesions may still be able to conceive naturally. For patients who are already pregnant, chocolate cysts may shrink during pregnancy due to changes in hormone levels, and symptoms may also be alleviated.

In terms of treatment, doctors recommend that patients with chocolate cysts should seek professional treatment as soon as possible, including medication and surgery. The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms, restore ovulation function and improve fertility. For patients who want to become pregnant, doctors may recommend fertility-preserving surgery to maximize the protection of ovarian and fallopian tube function.