A cyst is a small, sac-like lump filled with fluid or semi-solid material. Cysts can form anywhere in the body, including in the female genital area, where they are known as vaginal cysts.

Vaginal cysts develop as fluid-filled lumps along the vaginal wall. While they are usually harmless, some may cause discomfort, grow larger, or become infected. If any of these issues arise, it is important to seek medical evaluation and treatment.

Types of vaginal cysts

Vaginal cysts are generally classified into five main types. Some are present from birth (congenital), while others develop due to health conditions.

Here are the most common types of vaginal cysts:

Inclusion cysts

Inclusion cysts are one of the most common types of vaginal cysts and are often discovered during routine vaginal exams.

These cysts form on the vaginal wall, usually due to injury, such as tears during childbirth or vaginal surgery. As the wound heals, vaginal tissue may become trapped, forming a cyst. Inclusion cysts are typically small and don't cause serious symptoms. However, if they cause discomfort or pain, it's best to consult a doctor.

Bartholin’s cysts

Bartholin's cysts are fluid-filled lumps that develop near the vaginal opening, typically on either side. They occur when the Bartholin's glands, responsible for producing lubrication for the vaginal lips (labia), become blocked.

If the fluid in these glands becomes trapped, it forms a cyst. An infected Bartholin's cyst can develop into an abscess, leading to swelling, pain, and fever.

Treatment depends on the size of the cyst and whether it's infected. Some Bartholin's cysts resolve on their own, but larger or infected cysts may require surgical removal to prevent recurrence.

Sebaceous cysts

Sebaceous cysts are lumps that appear on the vulva (external female genitalia). They develop when the sebaceous glands, which produce the skin’s natural oils, become blocked.

These cysts are usually small, filled with a yellowish-white oily fluid, and generally harmless. While they don’t cause pain, they can become irritated, especially if rubbed frequently.

Gartner’s cysts

Gartner's cysts form from remnants of the Gartner’s duct, which typically disappears before birth. In some cases, the duct doesn’t fully disappear and remains as residual tissue in the body, leading to the formation of a Gartner's cyst on the vaginal wall.

These cysts usually don’t cause symptoms, but if they grow larger, they may lead to discomfort and require medical attention.

Müllerian cysts

Müllerian cysts develop from leftover Müllerian tissue during fetal development. Similar to Gartner's cysts, these form from tissue that should have disappeared before birth. If a Müllerian cyst grows large or becomes infected, surgery may be necessary.

While most vaginal cysts are not dangerous and rarely cause symptoms, you should seek medical attention if the cyst grows larger, causes frequent pain, causes abnormal bleeding, or indicates infection.

If you notice a lump in your vaginal area, see a doctor. You can also make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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