Vaginal cysts: Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 04:12, 29 March 2025

A type of cyst occurring in the vaginal area

Vaginal cysts are closed sacs located on or under the vaginal lining that contain fluid, pus, or other material. They are generally benign and can vary in size.

Types[edit]

Vaginal cysts can be classified into several types based on their origin:

Inclusion cysts: These are the most common type of vaginal cysts and often occur as a result of trauma or surgery to the vaginal area.
Gartner's duct cysts: These develop from remnants of the Gartner's duct, which is a structure present during fetal development.
Bartholin's cysts: These occur when the Bartholin's glands, located near the vaginal opening, become blocked.
Mullerian cysts: These arise from remnants of the Mullerian duct, another embryonic structure.

Symptoms[edit]

Many vaginal cysts are asymptomatic and are discovered during routine pelvic examinations. However, larger cysts may cause symptoms such as:

A noticeable lump or swelling in the vaginal area
Discomfort or pain during intercourse
Pain during physical activities
Difficulty inserting tampons

Diagnosis[edit]

Diagnosis of vaginal cysts typically involves a pelvic examination. In some cases, imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to determine the size and exact location of the cyst. A biopsy may be performed if there is any concern about the nature of the cyst.

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for vaginal cysts depends on the type and severity of the cyst. Options include:

Observation: Small, asymptomatic cysts may not require treatment and can be monitored over time.
Surgical removal: Larger or symptomatic cysts may be surgically removed, especially if they cause discomfort or interfere with daily activities.
Marsupialization: This procedure involves creating a small incision in the cyst and stitching the edges to form a permanent open pouch, allowing continuous drainage.

Prognosis[edit]

The prognosis for individuals with vaginal cysts is generally excellent, especially when the cysts are benign and properly managed. Recurrence is possible, particularly with Bartholin's cysts, but can often be managed with appropriate treatment.

Prevention[edit]

There are no specific measures to prevent vaginal cysts, but maintaining good genital hygiene and seeking prompt medical attention for any unusual symptoms can help in early detection and management.

Related pages[edit]

References[edit]

"Vaginal Cysts." Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2023.
"Vaginal Cysts." Cleveland Clinic, 2023.

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
 {{Short description|A type of cyst occurring in the vaginal area}}
-{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
+[[File:Operative_gynecology_-_(1906)_(14781201664).jpg|Operative gynecology|thumb]]
 '''Vaginal cysts''' are closed sacs located on or under the vaginal lining that contain fluid, pus, or other material. They are generally benign and can vary in size.
@@ Line 10: / Line 9: @@
 * '''Gartner's duct cysts''': These develop from remnants of the Gartner's duct, which is a structure present during fetal development.
 * '''Bartholin's cysts''': These occur when the Bartholin's glands, located near the vaginal opening, become blocked.
-* '''cysts''': These arise from remnants of the duct, another embryonic structure.
+* '''Mullerian cysts''': These arise from remnants of the Mullerian duct, another embryonic structure.
 ==Symptoms==
@@ Line 39: / Line 38: @@
 * [[Bartholin's cyst]]
 * [[Gartner's duct]]
-* [[duct]]
+* [[Mullerian duct]]
 ==References==
 * "Vaginal Cysts." Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2023.
 * "Vaginal Cysts." Cleveland Clinic, 2023.
-[[File:Operative gynecology - (1906) (14781201664).jpg|thumb|Illustration from a 1906 gynecology textbook showing surgical techniques related to vaginal cysts.]]
 [[Category:Gynecology]]
 [[Category:Vagina]]
-<gallery>
-File:Operative_gynecology_-_(1906)_(14781201664).jpg
-</gallery>
-== Vaginal Cysts ==
-Vaginal cysts are [[fluid-filled sacs]] that can develop along the [[vaginal canal]]. They are generally benign and can vary in size. Understanding the types, causes, and treatment options for vaginal cysts is crucial for medical students and healthcare professionals.
-=== Types of Vaginal Cysts ===
-There are several types of vaginal cysts, each with distinct characteristics:
-* '''[[Gartner's duct cyst]]''': These cysts develop from remnants of the [[Gartner's duct]], a structure present during fetal development. They are typically found on the side walls of the vagina.
-* '''[[Bartholin's cyst]]''': These occur when the [[Bartholin's glands]], located near the vaginal opening, become blocked. This can lead to swelling and sometimes infection, known as a [[Bartholin's abscess]].
-* '''Inclusion cysts''': These are the most common type of vaginal cysts and often result from trauma to the vaginal walls, such as from [[childbirth]] or [[surgery]].
-* '''Müllerian cysts''': These arise from remnants of the [[Müllerian duct]], another embryonic structure, and are usually found on the upper part of the vagina.
-=== Causes ===
-Vaginal cysts can be caused by various factors, including:
-* [[Trauma]] to the vaginal area, such as from childbirth or surgical procedures.
-* Blockage of glands, leading to fluid accumulation.
-* Developmental remnants from embryonic structures like the Gartner's duct or Müllerian duct.
-=== Symptoms ===
-Many vaginal cysts are asymptomatic and discovered during routine [[pelvic examinations]]. However, larger cysts may cause:
-* A noticeable lump or swelling in the vaginal area.
-* Discomfort or pain, especially during [[sexual intercourse]] or [[physical activity]].
-* Difficulty with [[urination]] or [[bowel movements]] if the cyst is large enough to exert pressure.
-=== Diagnosis ===
-Diagnosis of vaginal cysts typically involves:
-* A thorough [[medical history]] and [[physical examination]].
-* [[Pelvic ultrasound]] or [[MRI]] to assess the size and location of the cyst.
-* [[Biopsy]] may be performed if there is a concern for malignancy.
-=== Treatment ===
-Treatment depends on the type and size of the cyst, as well as the presence of symptoms:
-* '''Observation''': Small, asymptomatic cysts may not require treatment and can be monitored over time.
-* '''Surgical removal''': Larger or symptomatic cysts may need to be surgically excised.
-* '''Marsupialization''': This procedure is often used for Bartholin's cysts, where the cyst is opened and sutured to allow continuous drainage.
-* '''Antibiotics''': If an infection is present, such as in a Bartholin's abscess, antibiotics may be prescribed.
-=== Prognosis ===
-The prognosis for vaginal cysts is generally excellent, especially when they are benign and properly managed. Recurrence is possible, particularly with Bartholin's cysts, but can often be managed with appropriate treatment.
-== See Also ==
-* [[Vaginal health]]
-* [[Gynecology]]
-* [[Pelvic examination]]
-== References ==
-{{Reflist}}
-[[Category:Gynecology]]
-[[Category:Vaginal disorders]]
-{{Medical-stub}}