Gartner cyst: what it is, symptoms and treatment

Content:

Gartner's cyst is an uncommon type of lump that can appear in the vagina due to fetal malformations during pregnancy, which can cause abdominal and intimate discomfort, for example.

The developing fetus has the Gartner canal, which is responsible for the formation of the urinary and reproductive system, and which naturally disappears after birth. However, in some cases the Gartner canal may remain and start to accumulate fluid, resulting in the vaginal cyst that may not cause symptoms until adulthood.

Gartner's cyst is not serious and its development is usually monitored by a pediatrician or gynecologist, however, when the growth is constant, a small surgical procedure may be necessary to remove it.

main symptoms

Gartner's cyst usually causes no symptoms, especially when it measures less than 2 cm. However, over time, as fluid builds up inside, the cyst can increase in size and cause symptoms such as:

  • Pain during intimate contact;
  • Discomfort in the intimate region;
  • Lump in the genital region;
  • Abdominal pain.

Generally, the Gartner cyst does not present symptoms in the child, but in some cases the parents can observe the presence of a lump in the girl's intimate region, and they should inform the pediatrician to diagnose the problem and initiate the appropriate treatment.

Also learn how to recognize other types of cyst in the vagina.

How to confirm the diagnosis

The diagnosis of Gartner's cyst is made by the gynecologist through routine gynecological examination. In addition, the doctor may order tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan or MRI to rule out other conditions that can lead to a cyst in the vagina, such as a Bartholin cyst or urethral diverticulitis, or tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

In addition, the doctor may recommend performing a biopsy of the cyst to rule out vaginal cancer and confirm the benignity of the cyst. Understand how the biopsy is done.

How is the treatment done?

Treatment for Gartner's cyst can be done in the maternity ward through aspiration of fluid or a minor surgery to completely remove the cyst. 

When the cyst is only diagnosed in adulthood, the gynecologist may choose to just monitor the growth of the cyst. Treatment is usually indicated when the woman starts to have symptoms or complications, such as urinary incontinence or urinary infections, for example. Usually, the doctor recommends using antibiotics if there are symptoms of infection, and performing surgery to remove the cyst.