Women today face many health problems because of busy lives, stress, and changes in diet. Issues like PCOS, PCOD, and ovarian cysts are becoming more common. One lesser-known problem is the chocolate cyst, which can cause pain and make it hard to get pregnant. Actress Amy Schumer has openly shared her own struggles with chocolate cysts and endometriosis. Her story gives hope to women facing similar challenges. Read ahead to know about what chocolate cysts are, their symptoms, causes, and how Amy Schumer managed to find relief and become a mother.
Amy Schumer’s Journey With Chocolate Cysts and Endometriosis![1 - 2025-05-19T132041.580]( "Amy Schumer chocolate cysts")
Amy Schumer has been honest about her battle with endometriosis and chocolate cysts. She shared that she was “on the floor in pain” and “vomiting” before her diagnosis. She explained that her body was “choked” by the disease. In 2021, Amy had a hysterectomy and an appendectomy to treat her condition.
At a recent event, Amy shared, “It was a unique experience to have the proof for the first time. To sit down in his office, and have him go through and show me the 33 [attachments] that I had from endo. That my appendix was being choked by endometriosis. That I had chocolate cysts [which are full of old blood] in my ovaries. And that it was a miracle that I was able to carry a child,” She said that the conversation left her “just weeping and weeping and weeping.” The actress further had surgery to remove her cysts and manage her endometriosis. She also went through fertility treatments.
What Is a Chocolate Cyst?![2 - 2025-05-19T132046.813]( "chocolate cysts")
Dr Priyanka Suhag, Gynaecologist and Obstetrician and Fertility Expert, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, explains that a chocolate cyst is a type of ovarian cyst linked to endometriosis. It gets its name because it is filled with old, dark brown blood that looks like chocolate syrup. These cysts form when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries. During periods, this tissue bleeds, but the blood gets trapped and forms a cyst. Over time, the blood turns thick and dark.
Symptoms of Chocolate Cyst
The expert says that chocolate cysts often cause symptoms similar to period problems. Not all women have symptoms. Some may only find out about the cyst during a routine check-up or when they have trouble conceiving. However, som of the common symptoms include:
- Pelvic pain, especially during periods
- Pain during sex, bowel movements, or urination
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Trouble getting pregnant (infertility)
- Sometimes, unwanted hair growth on the face
Causes of Chocolate Cyst![3 - 2025-05-19T132045.101]( "chocolate cysts causes")
The main cause of chocolate cysts is endometriosis. In this condition, tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside it. If this tissue grows on the ovaries, it can trap blood during periods, leading to a cyst. Dr Priyanka explains that when blood is unable to leave the body during periods and gets stuck in the ovaries, a chocolate cyst forms. This can affect a woman’s period cycle, ovulation, and even her ability to get pregnant.
How Are Chocolate Cysts Detected?
Doctors use several tests to find chocolate cysts:
- Pelvic ultrasound: This is the most common test to spot a cyst on the ovaries.
- MRI or CT scan: These scans help see the size of the cyst and any possible complications.
- Laparoscopy: This is a minor surgery where a doctor looks inside the abdomen with a camera. It can also be used to remove the cyst.
Treatment for Chocolate Cyst
Treatment depends on the woman’s age, the size of the cyst, and her symptoms. Women who want to have children should talk to their doctor about the best treatment plan. According to the expert, below are a few treatment options:
- Medicines: Painkillers can help with pain, but do not remove the cyst.
- Surgery: If the cyst is large or causes a lot of pain, laparoscopic surgery may be needed to remove it. This can also help improve fertility.
Conclusion
Chocolate cysts are a common but often misunderstood women’s health issue. They can cause pain, irregular periods, and make it harder to get pregnant. Early diagnosis and the right treatment can help women manage symptoms and improve fertility. Amy Schumer’s story shows that with support and proper care, it is possible to overcome these challenges and achieve pregnancy. If you have symptoms or concerns, talk to your doctor for advice and treatment options.