Nabothian cysts are common, benign growths that appear on the surface of the cervix. These small, fluid-filled bumps are a normal finding for many individuals, particularly those who have given birth or are of childbearing age. While often discovered incidentally during routine gynecological examinations, a common question is whether they cause pain or other noticeable symptoms.
What Are Nabothian Cysts?
Nabothian cysts form when mucus-producing glands in the cervix become covered by an overgrowth of skin cells. This covering traps the mucus, causing it to accumulate and form a cyst. This process is a natural part of cervical healing, often occurring after childbirth or during chronic inflammation.
These cysts typically appear as small, smooth bumps, ranging from white to pale yellow or amber. They are generally only a few millimeters in diameter, though they can occasionally grow larger. These are benign occurrences and do not pose a threat to overall health or increase the risk of cervical cancer.
Do Nabothian Cysts Cause Pain?
Nabothian cysts are overwhelmingly asymptomatic, typically causing no pain or discomfort. Most individuals remain unaware of them until a healthcare provider identifies them during a routine pelvic examination. Their small size and benign nature usually mean they do not interfere with daily life.
In rare instances, however, Nabothian cysts might lead to some discomfort. If a cyst grows unusually large, exceeding 1 to 4 centimeters, it could cause pressure or fullness in the vagina or pelvis. Rarely, a large cyst might obstruct the cervical canal, which could affect menstrual flow or, in very uncommon cases, complicate childbirth. If a cyst were to rupture or become infected, it could lead to localized pain or changes in vaginal discharge.
Other Causes of Pelvic Discomfort
Since Nabothian cysts rarely cause pain, pelvic discomfort often indicates other gynecological or general health conditions.
- Endometriosis, where uterine lining-like tissue grows outside the uterus, causes significant pelvic pain, especially during periods, sex, or bowel movements. Pain can range from a dull ache to sharp cramping.
- Uterine fibroids, non-cancerous uterine growths, commonly cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen, and pain during sex or bowel movements. Discomfort varies by size and position.
- Ovarian cysts, fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries, can cause pain if large, ruptured, or twisted, leading to sudden, severe discomfort.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection of reproductive organs, often presents with lower abdominal pain, unusual vaginal discharge, and pain during sex or urination.
Diagnosis and When to Seek Medical Advice
Nabothian cysts are most frequently diagnosed incidentally during a routine pelvic examination, often during a Pap test. A healthcare provider can typically identify them visually as small, smooth, raised bumps on the cervix. In some cases, an ultrasound, MRI, or colposcopy (a magnified view of the cervix) might confirm the diagnosis or differentiate them from other cervical conditions.
Treatment is generally not necessary given their benign and asymptomatic nature. If a cyst is unusually large, causes discomfort, or obstructs the cervix, a healthcare provider might consider minor procedures like draining the cyst or using electrocautery or cryotherapy to remove it.
Seek medical attention if you experience persistent or severe pelvic pain, unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, pain during sexual intercourse, or any other concerning symptoms. These symptoms warrant evaluation to determine the underlying cause and ensure appropriate management.