A vaginal cyst is a small lump that forms on the vaginal wall or opening, usually filled with air, fluid, or pus. It often develops when a gland becomes blocked, or after mild injuries, infections, or childbirth.

The most common type is the Bartholin’s cyst, which appears near the vaginal opening due to fluid buildup in the Bartholin’s glands that produce natural lubrication. Other types include inclusion, Gartner, sebaceous, and Mullerian cysts, which vary based on their location and cause.

Most vaginal cysts are harmless and may disappear on their own, but larger ones can cause pain or discomfort during sex or tampon use. Treatment may involve draining the cyst or using antibiotics if an infection develops.

Main symptoms

The most common symptoms of a vaginal cyst include:

A small lump or bump at the vaginal opening or along the vaginal wall
Pain or discomfort during sex (dyspareunia), walking, or sitting
Redness, swelling, or tenderness in the area
A warm sensation around the cyst
Fever
Lower abdominal pain
Pus or fluid draining from the cyst

In most cases, a vaginal cyst doesn’t cause any symptoms and is only noticed if it grows larger or becomes infected.

These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions affecting the vaginal area, so it’s important to see a gynecologist if they last for more than three days to identify the cause and begin proper treatment.

Possible causes

The most common cause of a vaginal cyst is the clogging of a gland or duct, resulting in an accumulation of fluid inside and the formation of a lump. This is what happens in cases of Bartholin cysts or sebaceous cysts.

A cyst in the vagina can also occur due to vaginal wall trauma, which can happen during childbirth, for example. This is typically what happens in cases of Gartner cyst or Mullerian cyst.

Another cause of a vaginal cyst is sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea or chlamydia.

Confirming a diagnosis

The best way to confirm the presence of a cyst is to seek a consult with your doctor or gynecologist. They will also rule out other problems that may be causing vaginal changes, like HPV, and start treatment as necessary.

Types of vaginal cysts

There are different types of vaginal cysts that vary depending on where they are located. The main types include:

Inclusion cysts: These are the most common types of cysts, and typically emerge on the vaginal wall following a mild injury, like surgery or delivery.
Bartholin cyst: This cyst is noted at the vaginal opening, and occurs due to an accumulation of liquid in one or both of the Bartholin’s glands.
Gartner's duct cyst: This cyst generally grows along the vaginal wall and is caused by an accumulation of liquid within the vaginal canal. It usually resolves in most women after birth.
Sebaceous cyst: This type of cyst develops when the sebaceous glands, which produce oil on the outside of the vagina, become obstructed. It leads to the formation of a lump filled with a yellow-white fatty substance.

In addition to these cysts, there is also a Mullerian cyst, which usually resolves following birth, but can persist in many women well into adulthood.

It is always best to consult your doctor or gynecologist whenever you notice any changes to the genital area.

Treatment options

Vaginal cysts should generally be assessed, however most cases are comprised of small, asymptomatic cysts that resolve on their own without any treatment.

Cysts that are large and present with symptoms may require a small surgical procedure to drain the fluid inside the cyst.

In rarer cases, the cyst may also develop into an infection, which may require antibiotic treatment.

Possible complications

Generally, vaginal cysts do not cause complications, as they remain small and do not tend to grow. However, large cysts can cause pain or discomfort, especially during sex or with tampon use.

Vaginal Cyst: Symptoms, Causes, Types & How to Treat