Can chocolate cysts cause amenorrhea?

Chocolate cysts may cause amenorrhea, but this is uncommon and occurs when the condition is severe or the cyst continues to grow, causing ovarian function to be impaired. Chocolate cysts are a common gynecological disease, essentially a manifestation of ovarian endometriosis. If not managed in time, they may interfere with normal ovarian function, affect the menstrual cycle, and even cause amenorrhea.

The formation of this cyst is closely related to genetic, environmental and physiological factors. Genetic factors may cause ovarian dysfunction or make endometriosis more likely in some women. Endocrine disruptors in the environment and long-term stress will increase the burden on gynecological health. Immune dysfunction may affect the migration and clearance of the endometrium. When the condition is mild, the cyst only manifests as dysmenorrhea, increased menstrual flow or even irregular bleeding; when the condition progresses, the enlargement of the cyst may compress the blood supply to the ovarian tissue, inhibit ovulation and even lead to ovarian reserve failure, resulting in amenorrhea symptoms.

Mild to moderate chocolate cysts can be managed with medications such as progestin therapy (such as desogestrel), GnRH agonists to relieve endometriosis symptoms, or oral contraceptives to inhibit cyst growth. If the condition is severe or the cyst diameter exceeds 5 cm, surgical intervention is required, such as laparoscopic cystectomy, ovarian function-preserving incision and removal, or partial ovarian removal when necessary. After medication and surgery, it is also necessary to adjust the diet, consume more Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidant-rich foods such as nuts and fresh fruits and vegetables, and maintain regular exercise to promote pelvic blood circulation and inflammatory metabolism.

Timely medical attention is the key to managing chocolate cysts, especially when menstrual abnormalities are obvious. Professional obstetricians and gynecologists will provide personalized treatment plans based on the specific situation to delay damage to ovarian function and avoid serious consequences such as amenorrhea. Women over 35 years old who have repeated unexplained menstrual depression symptoms or difficulty in conceiving should undergo regular ultrasound examinations to understand the status of their ovaries and strive for early screening and early treatment.