6 Home Remedies to Manage Vaginal Cysts

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Vaginal cysts don’t usually come with symptoms but it can be uncomfortable to have them.

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They can be pockets of pus in your vagina lining that may cause discomfort. So it becomes important to manage them in the best possible way.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do at home to promote healing and protect the cyst from infection.

Home Remedies to Manage Symptoms of Vaginal Cysts

The following remedies can help you get rid of the discomforts of vaginal cysts.

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1. Take a sitz bath

Taking a sitz bath is a very common way of reducing the discomfort that arises from vaginal cysts. This not only soothes any irritation and encourages healing but also helps drain the cyst if there is fluid inside it.

A sitz bath also helps reduce the chances of infection by keeping the area around it safe and clean.

To take a sitz bath, all you have to do is fill your tub with some warm water and add Epsom salt to it. Soak in the water for around 15 minutes or so, and then dry yourself. Doing this every alternate day or twice a week is good enough. (1)

2. Apply a warm compress

Using a warm compress on your cysts makes them soft and promotes drainage of fluid inside them. This is an effective way to promote healing.

A warm compress is also known to reduce infection by curbing bacteria. It also soothes inflammation in and around the vaginal area.

To perform a warm compress on the affected area, soak a clean towel in hot water and hold it close to your vagina for a few minutes. Do this at least twice a day until you see fluid start to drain.

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Make sure that the compress is not too hot as your vaginal area is very sensitive and delicate. (2)

3. Use turmeric

Turmeric is a very famous natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent. This means that it not only alleviates discomfort that arises from pain and inflammation but also keeps your cyst protected from infection. These properties of turmeric come from its chemical compound called curcumin.

To use turmeric, make a paste by mixing turmeric with coconut oil and then apply it to the affected area. Other than topical application, you can also consume turmeric milk to promote healing. (3)

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4. Apply aloe vera gel

Aloe vera comes with anti-inflammatory properties. It is known to heal and reduce inflammation. It also helps soothe the area and, thus, can be very beneficial when dealing with cysts.

You can either directly apply a freshly extracted batch of aloe vera gel from an aloe vera leaf to your cyst, or you can mix it with turmeric to make a paste and use it topically. (4)

5. Give yogurt a try

Yogurt is a good home remedy for vaginal cysts. It is also helpful in reducing cyst-related issues.

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You can apply yogurt directly to the affected area or use a cotton ball to apply it, at least twice a day. Consuming a cup of yogurt daily is also helpful to promote healing. (5)

6. Try garlic

Garlic contains antibiotic properties. It protects you from bacteria and reduces your risk of infections. Garlic is also known to boost immunity, thereby accelerating the healing of cysts.

Crush garlic and apply it directly to the cyst, or ingest garlic cloves twice every day. Remember to stop using garlic and go to a doctor if you experience irritation or discomfort with the remedy. (6)

Additional Self-Care Tips to Deal With Vaginal Cysts

• Take over-the-counter painkillers for symptomatic relief, if required.
• Maintain proper hygiene, which includes regular warm baths.
• Keep an eye out for additional symptoms.
• Apply a warm compress multiple times a day.
• Always wipe front to back when using the bathroom.
• Avoid having multiple sexual partners.
• Always use a condom when having sexual intercourse.

Most-Asked Questions About Vaginal Cysts

What happens when a vaginal cyst becomes infected?

If your vaginal cyst becomes infected, then it may cause pain. They’re usually infected by bacteria found on the skin near your vagina. Infections can also be due to sexually transmitted diseases.

Infected vaginal cysts have a pus-filled cavity and are very painful and require medical assistance. (7)

When to drain a vaginal cyst?

If your vagina cyst is big in size and filled with fluid, then a doctor may need to drain it out using a catheter.

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Do vaginal cysts need surgery?

If the cyst keeps coming back and is highly uncomfortable, your healthcare provider may suggest a surgical procedure to remove it entirely.

Final Word

Treatment for a vaginal cyst is usually implemented only after the cyst becomes infected or comes back every now and then. If it becomes huge, you might have to get it drained, but otherwise, due to the lack of symptoms, it can be managed easily at home with some remedies.

It is always better to have vaginal cysts checked by a healthcare professional such as a gynecologist, who will make sure you are on the right treatment path.

Continue ReadingVaginal Cysts: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and More

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Home Remedies for Cysts: What Actually Works?

A cyst is usually not harmful, but you’ll need to see a doctor if you want a cyst removed. Certain home remedies, such as a warm compress, can help reduce any uncomfortable symptoms.

Cysts are hard lumps filled with various substances that form in the body. There are many types. The most common type is an epidermoid cyst, which grows right under the skin.

Doctors or surgeons may help you remove this type of cyst. This is the only reliable way to remove one completely.

On the other hand, you can also try home remedies for your epidermoid cyst. These may help shrink it, reduce its appearance, or alleviate discomfort.

Before discussing home remedies, it’s necessary to go over a few important details:

• You should never try to remove or pop a cyst at home. This increases chances of infection. Popping also doesn’t guarantee a cyst will go away permanently.
• None of the remedies in this article are known or proven to remove cysts completely. However, science suggests they may help in indirect ways.
• Even if they’re not yet proven to work, trying these remedies poses few risks if used correctly.

Remember: If your cyst isn’t causing you problems, you don’t necessarily always need to remove it.

Talk with your doctor if the cyst:

• bothers you aesthetically
• gets infected
• causes pain
• grows rapidly in size

Simple heat is the most recommended and effective home measure for draining or shrinking cysts.

Here’s how it works: Heat may reduce the thickness of liquid in the cyst. In the case of liquid-filled epidermoid cysts, this may help fluid drain quicker into the lymphatic system. This system helps maintain fluid balance in the body and plays a role in protection against infection.

Keep in mind

Though this remedy is widely recommended by doctors and reputable sources, there are still no studies testing or showing that it’s effective. There’s also no research supporting the science for how it works.

As well, it doesn’t permanently remove cysts — only a healthcare professional can do that. Although this method isn’t guaranteed to drain or reduce the appearance of a cyst, it may be worth a try.

To use

1. Heat clean water to a warm or hot temperature, not boiling.
2. Wait for the water to cool to a tolerable, but hot, temperature for skin contact.
3. Dampen a clean cloth with the water and apply to the cyst for 20 to 30 minutes.
4. Repeat a few times each day.

Essential oil from the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) may help some cysts, albeit in an indirect way.

Research shows tea tree oil has antimicrobial activity. This means it kills bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens, though it’s not as strong or effective as synthetic compounds.

Some cysts are caused by ingrown hairs. These form when hair follicles don’t grow properly, leading to infection of a sebaceous gland. This creates a pus pocket that may become a cyst, referred to as a sebaceous cyst.

As an antimicrobial, tea tree oil may help kill bacterial infections caused by ingrown hairs. It may decrease the chances of getting a cyst caused by an ingrown hair or reduce its appearance.

Keep in mind

Overall, tea tree oil isn’t a proven cyst remedy. There are still no studies that show it can remove or prevent cysts.

Also, since not all cysts are caused by ingrown hairs, tea tree oil is highly unlikely to help all types of cysts — though trying it is low risk and may help in shrinking the cyst.

To use

1. Dilute tea tree essential oil in clean, warm, or hot water. Dilution ratio is two to three drops per 1 ounce of water.
2. Apply the mixture directly to the cyst several times per day with a clean cloth.

You can also combine tea tree oil applications with the above hot water compress remedy. Simply add essential oil to the hot water in the proper dilution ratio.

Avoid applying undiluted tea tree essential oil directly to the cyst or skin. This may cause discomfort, irritation, or burns. Always dilute the oil before topical use.

Apple cider vinegar is another recommended natural remedy. It may help with cysts to a limited extent.

There are no studies showing apple cider vinegar reduces cysts or removes them.

But, like tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar is shown to be antimicrobial at full strength. This is thanks to the acetic acid. It might not be as effective at lower strengths against some types of microbes, but it’s still important to dilute it before applying it to your skin.

Keep in mind

Apple cider vinegar may be effective for certain kinds of cysts, such as those caused by bacteria, but there’s no guarantee. It may still be worth a try since there are very few health risks.

To use

1. Mix equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar.
2. Apply this dilution directly to the cyst several times per day.

You can combine apple cider vinegar applications with the hot water compress home remedy. Simply add the apple cider vinegar to the hot water in the proper dilution ratio.

Never apply undiluted apple cider vinegar directly to skin. Acetic acids may cause discomfort, irritation, or burns.

Research shows that aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Both may help with pain and irritation in cysts.

Aloe vera may also help reduce the appearance or get rid of certain cysts caused by bacteria or other pathogens.

Keep in mind

In studies, aloe vera hasn’t been shown to reliably remove, drain, or reduce the appearance of cysts. It could be helpful for discomfort and pain, though more research is needed to fully support this.

To use

Following label directions, apply a pure aloe vera gel, cream, or lotion directly to an irritated or painful cyst as often as needed.

Only source aloe products from reputable and trustworthy companies. It’s best to look at the ingredients list to be sure you’re getting pure aloe.

Oil from the castor plant (Ricinis communis) may help cysts in the same vein as apple cider vinegar or tea tree.

Research shows castor oil is antimicrobial. It’s notably effective at killing bacteria that live in the skin, which can cause acne and cysts.

Keep in mind

Castor oil isn’t a proven cure for cysts, nor is it shown to reduce their appearance.

It’s also unlikely to help all types of cysts, only the types caused by bacteria — though there’s no guarantee it helps with those types either.

To use

Make sure to source a 100 percent pure castor oil product. Only purchase products from trustworthy companies with good reputations.

1. Put one drop of castor oil on your finger and apply to the cyst.
2. Apply more if needed, as often as needed. A few times each day is recommended.

Avoid ingesting castor oil if you’re pregnant or allergic to the substance. Also, be aware that it can cause diarrhea if consumed.

Witch hazel is a common topical wash for acne. Research indicates it may help acne due to the astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties could also benefit epidermoid cysts. It’s possible that witch hazel’s astringent tannins may help shrink them, while anti-inflammatory effects could ease pain.

Keep in mind

There are still no direct studies showing that witch hazel can treat cysts. It’s unlikely that it helps to remove them, though it may ease discomfort.

To use

1. Dab a cotton ball with witch hazel.
2. Apply to the cyst area.
3. Repeat a few times per day or as often as you’d like.

People with sensitive skin may have reactions to witch hazel, but this can be avoided by diluting witch hazel with water.

Some recommend honey for cyst management, though research on this is scarce. However, a 2017 review of studies indicated it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Keep in mind

There’s not enough research to call honey a cyst treatment or remover. Using it may help with discomfort as well as cysts caused by bacteria.

To use

One method is to create a poultice by mixing honey, preferably raw and all-natural, with other antimicrobial herbs and ingredients. You then apply the mixture to the cyst and leave it on overnight.

Alternatively, try this simpler technique:

1. Put a dab of pure honey on the cyst site.
2. Leave the honey on the cyst for a few hours, as a longer amount of time may help it to be more effective.
3. Wash the honey away, and apply more as often as you would like.

While turmeric alone won’t get rid of a cyst, the spice has well-known anti-inflammatory properties that may help with the healing process.

Keep in mind

Turmeric isn’t a cure for cysts. There’s also no guarantee that it’ll prevent or reduce swelling. And it might not help at all with certain types of cysts.

To use

If possible, use fresh turmeric powder.

1. Mix turmeric with water to create a paste.
2. Apply it to the cyst as needed.

A word of caution: Turmeric may cause skin reactions in some people. Before applying it directly to your cyst, patch test it on another small area of skin.

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You can’t prevent a cyst from forming, but you can prevent one from getting infected. The best way to do this is to avoid:

• squeezing it
• popping it
• poking it with anything
• cutting it open

Is it possible for a cyst to become infected?

Yes. If a cyst is opened and exposed to the elements, bacteria can be introduced into the wound. This can potentially cause an infection.

When should you see a doctor about a cyst?

If your cyst shows signs of infection, it’s time to see a doctor.

Signs of infection include:

• redness
• swelling
• pain
• being hot to the touch
• pus

Can cysts go away on their own?

It depends on the type of cyst. However, most epidermoid cysts go away on their own and don’t require a doctor’s visit.

Some home remedies can help with certain aspects of cysts, or specific types. Hot water compresses are most recommended by reputable sources.

Before using topical natural remedies, do a skin patch test: Apply a small amount to your forearm, and then wait for 24 hours to see if you have an allergic reaction. Though these are rare, they could happen.

If a home remedy causes discomfort, irritation, or other unusual symptoms, discontinue use immediately. Talk with your doctor instead about cyst treatment.

Remember that the only proven way to remove a cyst is to have it done by a healthcare professional.

Bartholin’s gland cyst – symptoms, causes, signs, diagnosis and treatment in the “SM-Clinic”

The pathology is not common, the frequency of occurrence is about 2%. At risk are women of early reproductive age (from 20 to 30 years).

For a long time, a Bartholin gland cyst may not cause discomfort to the patient. Pain for this condition is uncharacteristic. The only manifestation is the presence of a rounded formation of a soft elastic consistency in the thickness of the labia majora on the left or right side (the process is usually one-sided).

If the treatment is started in time, the Bartholin’s cyst can be eliminated on an outpatient basis. If it reaches a large size, then its surgical removal is required. In some cases, cysts can cause suppuration.

Types of Bartholin gland cysts

Bartholin gland cysts can be of 2 types:

• uncomplicated – there is no inflammation in the glandular tissue (acute bartholinitis or gland abscess);
• complicated – there is an inflammatory process, and often has a purulent character.

Symptoms of Bartholin’s cyst

The main complaint that patients with Bartholin’s cyst present is the presence of a rounded formation in the projection of the large genital lip. On palpation in the absence of an inflammatory process, the cyst is painless, has a softly elastic consistency and clear, even contours. Discomfort joins when the formation reaches a large size. Sometimes cysts can enlarge after sexual intercourse, because. there is an additional secretion of a natural moisturizer.

In cases of infection, a purulent process may develop in the contents of the cyst – acute bartholinitis or abscessing inflammation of the Bartholin gland. This situation is characterized by acute pains of a pulsating nature, the intensity of which increases during walking and intimacy, reddening of the skin in the pathological area and an increase in body temperature to 38-39 ° C. There may even be unmotivated weakness and chills.

Causes of a Bartholin’s cyst

Obstruction of the discharge canal of the Bartholin’s gland can be caused by the following factors:

• trauma to the genital organs;
• infectious inflammation in the external genitalia;
• violent friction during sexual intimacy.

The presence of a Bartholin gland cyst increases the risk of developing an abscess in this location. The causes of purulent inflammation can be:

• conditional pathogens that constantly live in the female genital tract, but acquire pathogenic properties only when immunity is reduced;
• pathogens with sexual transmission (infection occurred from a sexual partner).

Abscess formation occurs quickly – 3-4 days is enough. Provoking factors are:

• sexual genital contact;
• non-compliance with hygiene measures on menstrual days, in the postpartum and post-abortion periods;
• wearing compressive underwear;
• mechanical friction of the external genitalia.

Diagnosis of Bartholin’s cyst

To make a correct diagnosis, it is enough for a gynecologist to conduct an objective examination. At the entrance to the vagina in the thickness of the labia, a pathological formation with dimensions of 1 cm or more is detected. In the presence of acute bartholinitis, soreness, swelling and redness of the skin appear, in the case of an abscess, all these signs are more pronounced, and fluctuation is also determined (softening center in the center). To identify possible causes of the formation of a Bartholin gland cyst and assess the overall level of health, the doctor may prescribe additional studies:

• microscopic examination of the discharge from the vagina – allows you to identify the inflammatory process;
• general clinical analysis of urine – with purulent inflammation of the gland, the content of leukocytes may increase;
• general clinical blood test – the number of leukocytes increases and the ESR accelerates with the development of an abscess;
• exclusion of urogenital infections using enzyme immunoassay or polymerase chain reaction.

In some cases, especially in women over 40 years of age, Bartholin’s gland cancer may be suspected. As part of an objective diagnosis under local anesthesia, a biopsy is performed using a needle. The resulting material is subjected to morphological examination.

Expert’s opinion

Bartholin’s gland cyst, formed once and reaching a certain size, may no longer increase. Sometimes, however, its growth can still occur, which can lead to discomfort and the formation of psychological complexes due to the unaesthetic nature of the genital organs (there is asymmetry in the area of ​​​​the entrance to the vagina), this is especially important for female models. Therefore, gynecologists are advised to weigh the pros and cons and make the right decision about the need to remove it. In addition, do not forget that the Bartholin gland cyst can fester at any time, and in most cases, purulent inflammation requires an urgent operation, the risks of which are greater than with a planned one.

Kalinina Natalya Anatolyevna,
obstetrician-gynecologist, reproductologist, ultrasound diagnostician

Treatment methods for Bartholin gland cysts

For small cysts, outpatient treatment is performed, for large cysts, surgical intervention is indicated.

Conservative treatment

Conservative therapy is selected by the gynecologist individually for each patient. It consists in accelerating the resorption of the contents of the cyst. Anti-inflammatory treatment may also be given. Warm sitz baths are recommended.

In the presence of acute bartholinitis on the background of a cyst in the absence of an abscess, timely antibiotic and anti-inflammatory therapy can help to avoid surgery.

Surgical treatment of Bartholin gland cyst

Surgical treatment is performed in 2 cases:

• large cyst;
• the desire of the patient to get rid of the pathological structure (regardless of its size).

There are 2 types of surgical interventions:

• Marsupilization – the gynecologist makes an incision over the cyst, and the edges of the capsule are sutured to the edges of the incision. Thus, a new hole is formed for the outflow of the secret of the Bartholin gland. Gradually, the wound narrows, and the incision site becomes invisible. To prevent the hole from closing prematurely, a drainage tube is inserted into the cyst cavity for 1-2 days.
• Removal of the Bartholin gland – is carried out in the case when marsupilization did not bring the desired result.

If a patient develops an abscess against the background of a Bartholin’s cyst, then its opening and thorough cleaning of the cavity are indicated. Be sure to introduce a drainage tube to prevent the re-accumulation of pus and contribute to the speedy relief of the inflammatory process. All patients with Bartholin’s gland abscess after autopsy are prescribed antibiotic therapy.

Prevention of Bartholin’s cysts

There is no specific prevention of the formation of Bartholin’s cysts. It is recommended to avoid sexually transmitted infections. To do this, in the absence of a permanent and reliable sexual partner, condoms are used.

Rehabilitation after surgery

Immediately after surgery for a Bartholin’s cyst, a woman can be discharged home. In the early postoperative period, it is recommended to carefully carry out hygiene measures, trying to ensure that the established drainage does not fall out. After a few days, you will need to come to the clinic for a follow-up examination, removal of stitches or removal of drainage, depending on the situation.

FAQ

No. This is a disease of adults, because. the glands of the genital organs begin to function only after puberty. However, if the girl has a swelling in the vulva, it is necessary to consult with a pediatric gynecologist.

Yes, relapses are typical for this condition. To reduce their likelihood, you need to consult a gynecologist and be examined for urogenital infections, also follow the rules of personal hygiene (in addition to the fact that you need to wash yourself regularly, it is important to do it right – from front to back, and not vice versa). If the pathological recurs, then a radical operation to remove the cyst will help prevent this.

No, there can be various pathological processes in this area. It can be a cyst of the Gartner passage (embryonic duct), and a leak, and much more. Only a qualified gynecologist will be able to understand the situation, establish the correct diagnosis and choose the correct treatment. Therefore, do not delay your visit to the doctor.

The mucous membrane has a good regenerative potential, so the incision site heals without a trace after a few weeks and no one can notice it (often even a gynecologist). It should be noted that this happens during planned operations, because. they are held against a favorable background. If an autopsy is performed for an already developed abscess of the Bartholin gland, then against the background of purulent inflammation, coarse scarring of the tissues is sometimes noted.

Gynecology. National guide Size: 20 MB Release year: 2009Author: Pod red. IN AND. Kulakova, G.M. Savelyeva, I.B. Manukhina

Causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of Bartholin gland cyst in Moscow at the Center for Surgery “SM-Clinic”

general information

Kinds

Symptoms

Diagnostics

Surgery for a Bartholin gland cyst

Expert opinion of a doctor

Rehabilitation

Question answer

General information

Bartholin’s cyst is a disease in which there is a blockage of its excretory duct with subsequent accumulation of fluid. The gland itself is located in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe entrance to the vagina in the thickness of the labia majora and is responsible for the production of a mucous secret that provides moisture to the genitals. Blockage of the duct with the subsequent formation of a cyst is most common in young women against the background of injuries, infections, and insufficient hygiene of the genital organs. If the formation causes discomfort or becomes inflamed, it is removed surgically.

Species

Symptoms

Diagnostics

A presumptive diagnosis is made on the basis of a gynecological examination. If inflammation of the Bartholin gland cyst is suspected and to identify its cause, the following can be prescribed:

• general blood and urine analysis;
• general gynecological swabs and flora tests;
• tests for the detection of sexually transmitted diseases;
• ultrasound;
• biopsy of the mass in case of suspected malignancy.

Surgery for Bartholin’s cyst

The only effective treatment for a Bartholin’s cyst is its surgical removal. Depending on the volume of formation, the presence or absence of inflammation, doctors use the following operations:

• cyst puncture: the doctor punctures the formation and removes the accumulated fluid; after such a procedure, a relapse often occurs;
• marsupialization: the formation is opened and cleared of the contents, after which the doctor forms a new duct; sometimes a special drainage is installed;
• complete removal of the gland: all gland tissues and cysts are carefully excised, the wound is sutured.

More

Doctor’s expert opinion

Rehabilitation after surgery

The operation is carried out in one day mode. The woman goes home immediately. Until tissues heal, intimacy, overheating, swimming in open or public waters, and physical activity should be avoided.

Q&A

As a rule, scars on the mucous membrane are almost invisible. If the operation was performed against the background of suppuration, the probability of tissue deformation is higher.

Yes, cysts often empty on their own, but in this case there is a high risk of recurrence.

Sources

Gynecology. National leadership. Ed. IN AND. Kulakova, G.M. Savelyeva, I.B. Manukhin. Moscow. “GEOTAR-Media”, 2009

First Moscow State Medical University named after I.M. Sechenov

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology No. 1 (Medicine Faculty)

“SM-Clinic” on Volgogradsky Prospekt since 2016 is the clinical base for the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology No. 1 of the Medical Faculty of the First Moscow State Medical University named after I.M. Sechenov.

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