A vaginal cyst is a small sac of air, liquid or pus that develops on the lining of the inner vagina. A cyst can grow due to by mild injuries, accumulation of liquid within a gland or a tumor.
The most common types of vaginal cysts are those that develop within the Bartholin’s gland, which is responsible for excreting lubricant fluid in the vagina. This type of cyst can usually be visualized at the vaginal opening and looks like a small ball.
Most vaginal cysts do not cause any symptoms, however, if they do reach a certain size, they can cause discomfort during sex or when using a tampon. If symptoms are noted, the gynecologist may recommended a minor procedure to remove the cyst and relieve symptoms.
Main symptoms
In most cases, vaginal cysts do not cause any signs of symptoms, however some women may notice symptoms like:
- The presence of a lump at the vaginal opening or along the vaginal wall
- Pain or discomfort during sex
- Difficulty and discomfort when inserting a tampon
These symptoms may also be sign of other problems in the area, however. Therefore, if these symptoms last for over 3 days, you should see a gynecologist to identify the cause and start appropriate treatment.
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.
How to get rid of a vaginal cyst
Many times, vaginal cysts do not require any specific treatment, as they are usually small and do not cause any symptoms. Nonetheless, if you notice a growing cyst or if your have a cyst that causes discomfort, surgical removal may be indicated.
In rare cases, the cyst can lead to an infection, in which case, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection prior to removal.
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’s 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 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.
In addition to these cysts, there is also a Müller 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.
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.
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