Nabothian Cysts: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

What is a nabothian cyst?

A nabothian cyst, also known as a mucinous retention cyst, is a benign, fluid-filled lump that forms on the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. These cysts develop when the mucus-secreting glands in the cervix become clogged with skin cells, causing mucus to build up and create a cyst. Nabothian cysts in the cervix typically appear as small, white, or yellow bumps and range in size from a few millimetres to 4 centimetres in diameter.

Who does it affect?

Nabothian cysts primarily affect women of reproductive age, especially those who have given birth vaginally or experienced cervical trauma. However, any woman with a cervix can develop these benign cysts, as they result from normal physiological changes in the cervix.

Several factors may increase the likelihood of nabothian cyst causes. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, can lead to changes in the cervical glands, increasing the risk. Cervical inflammation or infections, such as chronic cervicitis, may also contribute by causing glandular blockage. Women who have undergone cervical procedures, including biopsies, cryotherapy, or loop electrosurgical excision procedures (LEEP), may develop cysts as part of the healing process. Additionally, as women age, the cervix naturally changes, which can lead to cyst formation.

It’s important to note that nabothian cyst causes are not only through sexual activity, poor hygiene, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They are a normal result of cervical gland blockage and generally do not require treatment. Since they are harmless, most cases are discovered incidentally during routine gynaecological exams. While prevention is not possible, regular checkups ensure they are properly identified and monitored if necessary.

How common are nabothian cysts?

Nabothian cysts are quite common, with an estimated 10-20% of women developing one or more of these cysts during their lifetime. Most women with nabothian cysts are asymptomatic, meaning they don't experience any noticeable symptoms.

What causes nabothian cysts?

Nabothian cysts form when mucus-producing glands in the cervix become blocked by skin cells, preventing mucus from being released and leading to cyst formation. This obstruction can result from cervical trauma due to childbirth or surgical procedures, inflammation or infection of the cervix, hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, and age-related cervical changes. While typically harmless and asymptomatic, these cysts may be detected during routine gynaecological exams. They usually require no treatment unless complications arise.

What are the symptoms of a nabothian cyst?

In most cases, nabothian cysts do not cause noticeable symptoms and often go undetected unless found during a routine pelvic exam. These cysts are usually small, ranging from a few millimetres to 1-2 centimetres in diameter, and they rarely cause pain or discomfort. However, in some instances, women with nabothian cysts may experience mild pressure or a sensation of fullness in the vagina, discomfort during sexual intercourse, or light spotting and discharge if a cyst ruptures.

When a nabothian cyst ruptures, it may release a small amount of clear, white, or yellow-tinged mucus. This discharge might have a slight odor but is generally not a cause for concern. While nabothian cyst symptoms are typically mild or absent, it is important to be aware of any unusual changes. If you experience persistent pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, or an increase in vaginal discharge, it may indicate a different underlying condition that requires medical attention.

Although nabothian cyst symptoms are usually harmless, any concerns should be discussed with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate the cysts and determine if further examination or treatment is necessary, ensuring overall cervical health and peace of mind.

How are nabothian cysts diagnosed?

Nabothian cyst diagnosis typically occurs during a routine pelvic exam or Pap smear. When examining the cervix, your healthcare provider may notice one or more small, smooth, rounded bumps on the surface. To confirm the diagnosis of a nabothian cyst, your doctor may recommend the following:

• Colposcopy: This procedure involves using a special magnifying instrument to get a closer look at the cervix and rule out any other abnormalities.
• Vaginal ultrasound: An ultrasound probe is inserted into the vagina to create images of the cervix and surrounding tissues, allowing your doctor to evaluate the size and location of the cyst.
• Biopsy: In rare cases, if there is uncertainty about the nature of the cyst, your healthcare provider may take a small tissue sample for laboratory analysis.

Remember, nabothian cysts are common and generally harmless, so don't be alarmed if your doctor discovers one during an exam. They will work with you to determine if any further action is needed.

How are nabothian cysts treated?

In most cases, nabothian cyst treatment is not necessary, as these cysts are benign and do not pose any health risks. However, if the cysts are large, causing symptoms, or interfering with medical procedures like Pap smears, your healthcare provider may recommend treatment options:

• Watchful waiting: Monitoring the cysts over time to see if they resolve on their own
• Electrocautery: Using a heated probe to remove the cyst
• Cryotherapy: Freezing the cyst to destroy the abnormal tissue
• Laser therapy: Using a focused beam of light to vaporise the cyst
• Surgical excision: Removing the cyst through a minor surgical procedure

If the nabothian cysts are associated with a cervical infection, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection and help the cysts heal. These procedures are generally quick, well-tolerated, and can be performed in your doctor's office.

How can we prevent nabothian cysts?

Currently, there is no known way to prevent nabothian cysts, as they are a natural occurrence related to the obstruction of cervical glands. However, maintaining good reproductive health through regular gynaecological check-ups can help identify these cysts early and allow for prompt treatment if necessary.

What can we expect if we have a nabothian cyst?

If you have been diagnosed with a nabothian cyst, rest assured that these cysts are generally harmless and do not affect fertility or overall health. In most cases, nabothian cysts will not cause any symptoms and may even resolve on their own over time.

What is the difference between a nabothian cyst and cervical cancer?

While both nabothian cysts and cervical cancer involve growths on the cervix, they are very different conditions. Nabothian cysts are benign, non-cancerous lumps that form due to the blockage of mucus glands. In contrast, cervical cancer is a malignant growth that develops from abnormal cells in the cervix. Unlike nabothian cysts, cervical cancer can spread to other parts of the body and requires prompt medical treatment. Regular Pap smears and HPV testing can help detect cervical cancer in its early stages, when it is most treatable.

Conclusion

Nabothian cysts are a common gynaecological finding that rarely cause complications or require treatment. Remember, regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are key to staying on top of any potential concerns.

If you have questions about nabothian cysts or any other cervical health issues, consider reaching out to the experts at Metropolis Healthcare. With a network of advanced diagnostic labs across India, Metropolis offers comprehensive women's health check-ups and convenient at-home sample collection services. Their team of experienced pathologists and technicians is committed to providing accurate results and personalised care to help you prioritise your well-being.