Female fertility
An endometrioma, sometimes called a chocolate cyst, is a cyst on the ovary formed by endometriosis. Large endometriomas can reduce the amount of healthy ovarian tissue and make egg collection more difficult, but surgery itself can also reduce ovarian reserve. The decision to operate before IVF is individual and should be discussed carefully with your specialist.
Also known as: chocolate cyst
Related South Africa guides
Sources
- ESHRE guidelines and patient information
Last reviewed: 8 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.