Nabothian cyst: what it is, symptoms, causes and treatment

Naboth’s cyst is a type of cyst that can appear on the surface of the cervix and cause symptoms such as discomfort in the intimate area, pain during sexual intercourse and vaginal discharge in some women, especially when they are large.

This cyst is caused by the obstruction of glands that produce mucus located in the cervix, known as Nabothian glands, and are more common in women of reproductive age.

If you suspect a Nabothian cyst, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist. Although they are considered benign, especially when they cause symptoms, the doctor may recommend draining them or removing them through surgery.

Main symptoms

Nabothian cysts can cause symptoms such as:

• Discomfort or feeling of pressure in the intimate area;
• Pain during sexual intercourse;
• Bleeding outside the menstrual period;
• Vaginal discharge.

However, symptoms are more common when the cysts are large or have ruptured. Therefore, in most cases, Nabothian cysts do not cause symptoms and are only identified during routine gynecological examinations.

Does Nabothian cyst prevent pregnancy?

The Nabothian cyst does not cause any changes in fertility, as it corresponds to the obstruction of the Nabothian glands present on the surface of the uterus and which are related to the production of mucus. Therefore, if there is difficulty getting pregnant, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist for an evaluation.

How to confirm the diagnosis

The diagnosis of Nabothian cyst is usually made by a gynecologist during a routine gynecological examination, in which it is possible to verify changes on the surface of the cervix that are characteristic of the cyst.

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However, sometimes the doctor may recommend tests, such as transvaginal ultrasound, MRI or colposcopy, to evaluate the pelvic region in more detail and confirm the diagnosis.

Furthermore, in some cases the Nabothian cyst can be mistaken for a tumor and the doctor may recommend a biopsy test to check for signs of malignancy. Check out what a biopsy is for and how it is done.

Causes of Nabothian cyst

Nabothian cyst is caused by the multiplication of cells on the surface of the cervix that leads to the obstruction of glands that produce mucus, resulting in its accumulation and formation of a cyst.

This cyst is more common in cases of chronic or recurrent inflammation of the cervix, also called cervicitis, which can stimulate the growth of tissue around the glands. Find out what cervicitis is and its symptoms.

Could Nabothian cyst be HPV?

Nabothian cyst is not indicative of HPV. HPV is an infection caused by the human papillomavirus and, although it can also affect the cervix, it does not normally lead to the appearance of a cyst. Understand better what HPV is and the possible complications.

What is the treatment like?

In most cases, Naboth’s cyst does not require specific treatment, as it normally does not cause symptoms and poses no risk to the woman.

However, if it is found that the Nabothian cyst is related to a genital infection, the doctor may recommend the use of medications to combat the infectious agent and prevent complications.

Furthermore, especially in cases where the cyst causes symptoms, such as pain or bleeding, or is very large, the doctor may recommend draining it or removing it through surgery.