Nabothian Cysts: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

A nabothian cyst is a benign growth on the cervix. Theн cysts occur in many women, mostly of childbearing age, and in most cases, don’t cause serious health problems. However, it is important to know what they are and how they are diagnosed and treated to avoid possible complications.

What is a nabothian cyst?Nabothian cysts form on the cervix when the glandular ducts in that area are blocked. These glands, called Nabothian glands, secrete mucus that protects the cervix and keeps it moist. When the ducts are blocked, the mucus can’t get out and accumulates to form a small cyst. Typically, such cysts vary in size from a few millimeters to a centimeter.

Nabothian cysts are considered benign and rarely become malignant. Gynecologists often discover them accidentally during routine examinations or ultrasound scans of the pelvic organs.

Causes of nabothian cysts
The leading cause of nabothian cysts is blockage of the glandular ducts. This can happen for the following reasons:
- Hormonal changes. During pregnancy or menopause, hormonal changes can cause overactivity or malfunction of the glands.
- Mechanical damage. Childbirth, abortion, or gynecological procedures such as the insertion of an intrauterine device can cause micro-trauma to the cervix and blockage of the glandular ducts.
- Infections. Inflammatory processes in the cervix caused by a bacterial or viral infection can contribute to the formation of cysts.
- Ectopia of the cervix. In case of erosion or ectopia, the mucous membrane can grow and close the ducts of the glands.

Symptoms and signs
In most cases, nabothian cysts cause no symptoms, and the woman may not be aware of their presence. However, in some cases, the following may occur:
- Discomfort or pressure in the cervix
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Discomfort or pain during intercourse
- Menstrual disorders (rare)

If the cyst becomes inflamed or enlarged, the symptoms may worsen, and complications are possible.

Diagnosis
The diagnosis of nabothian cysts is usually made during a routine pelvic examination by a gynecologist. The main diagnostic methods include:
- Visual inspection. During a colposcopy, the doctor may notice small whitish or yellowish growths on the cervix.
- Ultrasound examination. This method helps determine the size and location of cysts accurately.
- Pap test. If an inflammatory process or other pathologies are suspected, a smear from the cervix can be performed.
- Biopsy. If there is doubt about the benignity of the formation, the doctor can take a small sample of tissue for histological analysis.

Treatment options
In most cases, nabothian cysts don’t require treatment. If they don’t cause symptoms or increase in size, they are simply monitored. However, cysts can be treated in some cases:
- Puncture or opening of the cyst. If the cyst is causing discomfort or inflammation, your doctor may gently open it to remove the accumulated mucus.
- Cryodestruction. The liquid nitrogen freezing method is used to remove cysts.
- Laser treatment. Laser photocoagulation helps to eliminate cysts without the risk of damaging surrounding tissue effectively.
- Electrocoagulation. This method uses electric current to remove cysts and prevent them from recurring.

After the procedure, your doctor may prescribe antiseptic or anti-inflammatory medications to prevent infections.

Prevention
Although nabothian cysts can’t always be prevented, there are measures that can reduce the risk of their occurrence:
- Regular visits to the gynecologist (at least once a year)
- Timely treatment of inflammatory diseases of the genital organs
- Avoid cervical injuries during childbirth and gynecological manipulations
- Compliance with the rules of intimate hygiene
- Use of barrier contraceptive methods to prevent sexually transmitted infections

Possible complicationsAlthough nabothian cysts rarely cause complications, they can become inflamed or infected in some cases. This is accompanied by pain, purulent discharge, and a general deterioration of well-being. In such situations, immediate consultation with a doctor is required. In addition, if the cyst grows, it can interfere with the normal function of the cervix, which is especially important for women who plan to become pregnant.