Naboth's cyst is a small nodule that forms on the surface of the cervix due to the accumulation of mucus released by the Naboth glands that are in the cervix.
These cysts are formed when the mucus-producing glands are covered by a type of cell similar to the skin, blocking the passage of mucus. When this happens, the mucus accumulates inside the uterus giving rise to the cyst rounded to the surface of the cervix, which can be observed in the gynecological examination.
Naboth cysts are very common in women of reproductive age, especially those who have had children and do not mean that the woman has cancer of the uterus or cervical cancer. In addition, there is no relationship between Naboth cysts and pregnancy, these cysts do not cause infertility, nor do they impair fertilization or gestation.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
This cyst usually does not show any symptoms, but its presence may indicate that there was a previous or recent infection that led to the irritation of the cervix.
Naboth cysts are often diagnosed by chance by a gynecologist during a gynecological examination such as the pap smear. The cyst is rounded and has a whitish color that is visible and palpable in the cervix during routine gynecological examination.
Colposcopy and biopsy may be used to evaluate cyst characteristics and differentiate from other lesions, but biopsy is generally not necessary.
Causes
The cause of Naboth's cyst is the accumulation of secretion within the uterus due to blockage of the passage of mucus through the canal. This can happen after a genital infection, the body forms a layer of protective skin in the region of the cervix, giving rise to the small benign nodules in this region that can be observed in examinations or senses through the vaginal touch.
Do you need to treat Naboth's cyst?
Usually Naboth cysts do not need treatment, because they disappear on their own, but in very rare cases, the cysts can increase in size by changing the shape of the uterus. In this situation, the gynecologist can remove the cyst using a heat instrument that destroys the cyst or using a scalpel.
See how it is done and what diseases identifies the gynecological pap smear.
