A vaginal cyst is a type of fluid-filled lump located on or close to the vagina. These cysts are usually caused due to childbirth, blocked glands or injury to the vagina.
Vaginal Cysts Symptoms
Sometimes, a person may have a vaginal cyst without any symptoms, while in other cases, a cyst may cause discomfort or infection. A vaginal cyst may be diagnosed during a routine pelvic exam with a doctor.
Common vaginal cysts symptoms may include:
Small lumps protruding from the vagina
Itching in the vagina due to dryness
Pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse or while sitting, walking or using the restroom
Infected cysts can be swollen or tender and can cause a fever.
Vaginal Cysts Causes
The cause of vaginal cyst varies based on the type of cyst. Common causes of vaginal cyst may include:
Injury: An inclusion cyst, Mullerian vaginal cyst of Gartner's duct that forms due to tearing at the time of childbirth or an injury to the vaginal wall during surgery. These types of cysts cannot be prevented.
Duct or gland blockage: Sebaceous cysts and Bartholin’s gland occur only when a gland or a duct becomes clogged, causing oil, pus or other fluid to collect and form a lump. If infected, these cysts can be painful and can be prevented by maintaining good hygiene.
Infection: Bacteria from STI’s (Sexually Transmitted Infections) like chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause vaginal cysts to be infected. It is therefore important to practice safe sexual practices.
Vaginal Cysts Types
The different types of vaginal cysts can include:
Inclusion Cysts
These are small cysts that form on the vaginal wall, often due to an injury that occurs during childbirth or vaginal surgery.
Bartholin Gland Cysts
Bartholin cysts, characterised by pus-filled abscesses or bumps, develop near the opening on either side of the vagina. It is named after Bartholin glands, which produces fluid responsible for lubricating the labia (part of the vagina).
Sebaceous Cysts
These vaginal cysts develop when the sebaceous (oil-producing) glands of the external genitalia (vulva) are blocked.
Gartner’s Duct Cysts
The Gartner’s duct is an organ present at the time of a person’s fetal development. It typically goes away after birth, but if not, the ducts can lead to the formation of cysts on the walls of the vagina at a later stage in life.
Mullerian Cysts
This type of cyst originates from residual tissue in the Mullerian ducts during fetal development and can form on the vaginal walls at a later stage in life.
Cysts may also form because of benign tumours or endometriosis. However, it is uncommon.
Vaginal Cysts Diagnosis
A gynecologist can detect a vaginal cyst during a physical exam. Cyst are monitored over time for any change in size or appearance. The treatment approach for vaginal cysts will vary based on the type and severity of the cyst. The following tests may be done on vaginal cysts:
A cyst biopsy to rule out cancer
Taking a vaginal fluid sample to test for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
An ultrasound or MRI to examine the cyst in detail.
Vaginal Cyst Treatment
A gynecologist directs vaginal cyst treatment that may include:
Antibiotics: If the vaginal cyst is infected, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
Surgical draining: During surgical draining for vaginal cysts, a catheter is inserted into the cyst to drain fluid. This usually takes several weeks.
Marsupialization: In this treatment procedure, the vaginal cyst is surgically operated to drain the fluid. Afterwards, a surgeon stitches the edges of the cyst wall to form a permanent pocket for continuous drainage.
Sitz bath: A sitz bath refers to the practice of sitting in a bathtub with warm water several times in a day. This helps relieve discomfort and promote healing.
Vaginal Cysts Prevention
Although it is not possible to prevent vaginal cysts, maintaining an adequate level of hygiene helps prevent infection of the cysts. In addition, safe sexual practices help prevent vaginal cysts caused by sexually transmitted infections.
FAQs
Do vaginal cysts go away?
In a majority of cases, vaginal cysts remain small and do not require treatment. However, when surgically removed, vaginal cysts do not return. Sometimes, Bartholin cysts recur and need an ongoing treatment.
Is it okay to get cysts in the pubic area?
While a vaginal cyst goes away on its own, it is important to consult a doctor for cysts that grow in size and cause discomfort.
What triggers Bartholin cysts?
Bartholin cysts are associated with sexually transmitted infections or a direct injury to the vagina caused during childbirth or surgery. These cysts are more common in females of reproductive age or have been previously diagnosed with Bartholin’s abscess or cyst.
What happens if a Bartholin cyst goes untreated?
If a Bartholin’s cyst is left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body. In a condition called septicemia, the infection may also enter a person’s bloodstream.
Comprehensive
Treatments for a Wide Range of Obstetrics & Gynaecology Conditions
Ovarian
Cyst Treatment
Uterine
Fibroid Treatment
