What is a Nabothian cyst?

Nabothian cyst, also known as Nabothian gland cyst, is a retention cyst formed due to obstruction of the cervical subepithelial gland ducts. This type of cyst is commonly seen in patients with chronic cervicitis and frequently occurs in women of childbearing age.

There are generally two causes for this condition. One is that during puberty and the reproductive years, as the cervical epithelium extends outward, it may block the outlets of the cervical glands, preventing secretions from draining smoothly and leading to fluid retention within the tissue, forming a cyst. This situation is considered a physiological change and usually does not cause harm. The other cause is cervical injury leading to inflammation at the wound site, which secondarily blocks the cervical gland openings, also resulting in cyst formation. These cysts are usually accompanied by symptoms of cervicitis, such as increased vaginal discharge and odor. Nabothian cysts typically appear as single or multiple lesions of varying sizes, with smooth surfaces and a blue-white or yellow-white appearance. The contents of the cysts are transparent or milk-white mucus. Most Nabothian cysts do not cause significant symptoms, although some patients may experience increased vaginal discharge or discomfort in the lower abdomen.

Asymptomatic Nabothian cysts generally do not require specific treatment and only need regular follow-up examinations. For symptomatic cysts or those large enough to affect daily life, treatment options such as laser therapy or electrocautery may be considered.