What causes vulvar cysts?

Vulvar cysts may be caused by obstruction of the Bartholin gland duct, folliculitis, sebaceous cyst, vulvar trauma or infection, Bartholin's gland cyst, etc. Vulvar cysts usually present with vulvar swelling, pain, local redness and other symptoms, and can be treated with hot compress, antibiotic treatment, surgical drainage and other methods.

1. Bartholin gland duct obstruction

Obstruction of the Bartholin gland duct is a common cause of vulvar cysts, mostly caused by poor discharge of glandular secretions. It may be related to poor local hygiene and repeated friction and stimulation. Patients often experience unilateral vulvar swelling, accompanied by discomfort when walking. Mild obstruction can be relieved by taking a warm water sitz bath. In severe cases, antibiotics such as cefaclor capsules and amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets must be used as directed by the doctor, or a catheter ostomy must be performed.

2. Folliculitis

Bacterial infection of vulvar hair follicles can form inflammatory cysts, which are common in Staphylococcus aureus infections. Hair follicles are often damaged due to shaving, friction with clothing, or sweating. It manifests as red papules with pus heads that are tender to the touch. Mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid cream can be used externally in the early stage. Incision and drainage are required after suppuration. It is necessary to keep the perineum clean and dry every day and avoid scratching.

3. Sebaceous cyst

After the vulvar sebaceous duct is blocked, sebum accumulates and forms a cyst. Cysts are hard in texture, have a smooth surface, and are usually painless. Redness, swelling, heat and pain may occur during secondary infection. Small cysts do not require treatment, but can be surgically removed if they become enlarged or infected. For prevention, be careful to avoid using irritating lotions. You can use clindamycin phosphate gel as directed by your doctor to control inflammation.

4. Vulvar trauma or infection

Trauma or postoperative scarring to the vulva may block the gland openings, causing cysts to form. Unclean sex, vaginitis, etc. may also cause secondary infections. It manifests as local induration with increased secretions. It is necessary to treat the primary disease, such as using metronidazole vaginal effervescent tablets to control infection, and cooperate with infrared physiotherapy to promote absorption.

5. Bartholin gland cyst

Bartholin's gland cyst is caused by chronic inflammation of the gland duct. When the cyst is large, it can affect sitting and lying. Acute attacks include severe pain and fever, which may develop into abscesses. In the early stage, levofloxacin tablets can be taken orally combined with local hot compress. Repeated recurrences require gland resection. Breathable cotton underwear should be worn daily to avoid compression during long-term riding.

Keeping the vulva clean is key to preventing cysts. It is recommended to wash it with warm water every day and avoid using alkaline soaps. Choose loose and breathable cotton underwear and change them in time, and change sanitary napkins frequently during menstruation. If swelling persists, pain worsens, or fever occurs, timely medical attention is required. Do not open or squeeze the cyst on your own. The diet should be light, reduce the intake of spicy and irritating foods, and appropriately supplement vitamin B to enhance skin resistance.