Skenes Gland Cyst

Skene’s gland cyst is a condition that affects women’s health. It involves the paraurethral glands, also known as Skene’s glands. These glands are near the urethra, which carries urine out of the body.

While these glands are important for female health, cysts can develop. This can cause discomfort and other symptoms.

In this article, we will look at the causes, symptoms, and treatments for Skene’s gland cysts. It’s key for women to understand this condition. This knowledge helps in managing symptoms and maintaining good gynecological health.

What is a Skene’s Gland Cyst?

A Skene’s gland cyst is a small, fluid-filled sac in the Skene’s glands, also known as the paraurethral glands. These glands are near the urethra, the tube that carries urine out. If these glands get blocked or infected, they can swell and form a cyst. This cyst may show up as a vulvar lump.

Anatomy of Skene’s Glands

The Skene’s glands, or paraurethral glands, are small, pea-sized glands in the vulvar area. They are on either side of the urethra, near the vagina’s opening. These glands are part of the female reproductive system and are similar to the prostate gland in males.

Function of Skene’s Glands

The Skene’s glands’ main job is to secrete fluid that lubricates the urethral opening and the surrounding tissue. This lubrication protects the delicate tissue from irritation and infection. In some women, the Skene’s glands may also play a role in female ejaculation, releasing fluid during sexual stimulation.

When the ducts of the Skene’s glands become blocked, fluid can build up, leading to a cyst. This cyst may cause discomfort, pain, or a vulvar lump. It’s important to get a Skene’s gland cyst diagnosed and treated quickly to prevent complications and ensure reproductive health.

Causes of Skene’s Gland Cysts

Skene’s gland cysts can come from many sources. These include bacterial infections, hormonal shifts, and duct blockages. Knowing what causes them helps in preventing and managing these cysts.

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections often lead to Skene’s gland cysts. When harmful bacteria get into the urinary tract or Skene’s glands, they can cause infections. Common culprits include:

Good hygiene and quick treatment of UTIs can lower the risk of Skene’s gland cysts from bacterial infections.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal shifts, like those during menopause, can also cause Skene’s gland cysts. Lower estrogen levels make vaginal and urethral tissues thinner and more prone to irritation. This can lead to inflammation and cyst formation in the Skene’s glands.

Blockage of Gland Ducts

Blockages in the ducts of the Skene’s glands can also lead to cysts. These blockages might stem from:

• Scar tissue from past infections or surgeries
• Genetic abnormalities in gland or duct structure
• Sticky secretions building up in the glands

When ducts get blocked, fluid can accumulate, causing cysts. Finding and fixing the blockage is key to avoiding future cysts.

Symptoms of Skene’s Gland Cysts

Women with Skene’s gland cysts may feel mild discomfort or severe pain. A common symptom is pelvic pain, which can be constant or come and go. This pain might get worse when you’re active, like during sex or exercise.

Many also notice a vulvar lump or swelling near the urethra’s opening. The size of this lump can vary, but it’s usually small and might hurt when touched. Some women see a clear, mucoid discharge from the cyst.

The severity of symptoms depends on the cyst’s size and where it is. Smaller cysts might not bother you much, but bigger ones can cause more pain and pressure. Here’s a table that lists common symptoms of Skene’s gland cysts:

Women with these symptoms should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Sometimes, Skene’s gland cysts are confused with other issues, like Bartholin cysts or urethral diverticula. Getting the right diagnosis is key to managing the condition effectively.

Diagnosing Skene’s Gland Cysts

If you think you might have a Skene’s gland cyst, it’s key to visit a healthcare provider. They will do a detailed physical examination. They might also use imaging tests to check for a cyst and rule out other issues.

Physical Examination

Your doctor will look closely at the area around the urethra and vaginal opening during the exam. They will search for any lumps, swelling, or signs of infection. The doctor might also press gently to see if there’s tenderness or discharge from the cyst.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests give a clearer view of the cyst and the tissues around it. Common tests for diagnosing Skene’s gland cysts include:

These imaging tests help doctors tell Skene’s gland cysts apart from other problems. Knowing the exact diagnosis is important for choosing the right treatment.

Treatment Options for Skene’s Gland Cysts

There are several ways to treat Skene’s gland cysts, depending on the cause and size. The main goal is to ease symptoms, avoid complications, and help the body heal. Antibiotic treatment is often used for infections. For bigger or persistent cysts, cyst removal like surgical drainage or marsupialization might be needed.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are given for bacterial infections causing Skene’s gland cysts. Oral antibiotics like amoxicillin or cephalexin target the infection. Sometimes, topical antibiotics are used directly on the area. It’s important to finish the antibiotic course to avoid the cyst coming back.

Surgical Drainage

If antibiotics don’t work or the cyst is too big, surgery might be needed. This involves a small cut to drain the cyst. The cut is left open to help it heal and prevent the cyst from coming back. This surgery is done under local anesthesia and is usually done as an outpatient procedure.

Marsupialization

Marsupialization is suggested for cysts that keep coming back or are very large. It involves stitching the cyst open to a small pouch. This allows the cyst to drain continuously, reducing the chance of it coming back. Marsupialization takes longer to recover from but can offer lasting relief.

Skene’s Gland Cyst vs. Bartholin Cyst

Skene’s gland cysts and Bartholin cysts are both vulvar cysts but differ in many ways. They have different locations, symptoms, and treatments. Knowing these differences helps women find the right medical care for their cysts.

Skene’s glands are near the urethra. Bartholin glands are at the vagina’s entrance. Cysts form when the ducts block, trapping fluid.

Symptoms of Skene’s gland cysts include a painless lump near the urethra. They can also cause discomfort during sex and urinary issues. Bartholin cysts are painful and can make walking, sitting, or sex painful.

Treatments for both cysts include antibiotics and surgery. Bartholin cysts might also need sitz baths or a Word catheter.

Complications of Untreated Skene’s Gland Cysts

Skene’s gland cysts can cause serious health problems if not treated. They can greatly affect a woman’s health and life quality. It’s important to get medical help quickly to avoid or lessen these issues.

Abscess Formation

Abscess formation is a common problem with untreated Skene’s gland cysts. The cyst can get infected, filling with pus. This leads to a painful abscess that can be swollen.

Getting an abscess can be very uncomfortable. It might need surgery to drain the pus and clear the infection.

Recurrent Infections

Untreated Skene’s gland cysts can lead to recurrent infections. The cyst can hold bacteria, causing infections to keep coming back. These infections can be painful and emotionally tough to deal with.

Women with Skene’s gland cyst symptoms should see a doctor right away. Early treatment helps manage symptoms and prevent bigger problems. This way, healthcare providers can help keep reproductive health in check.

Prevention of Skene’s Gland Cysts

It’s not always possible to stop Skene’s gland cysts from happening. But, there are ways to lower your risk. Keeping the genital area clean is key. Wash with mild soap and warm water after sex or exercise.

Wearing breathable clothes, like cotton underwear, helps too. It prevents irritation and bacterial growth that can cause cysts. Avoid tight, synthetic fabrics that hold moisture. If you get cysts often, your doctor might suggest a pH-balancing feminine wash.

Drinking plenty of water and urinating after sex helps get rid of bacteria. If you’re worried or have recurring cysts, talk to your doctor. They can give you advice and strategies that fit your needs.