Vaginal cysts

Alternative names:

Gartner's duct cyst; inclusion cyst

Definition:

A closed sac on or under the vaginal lining that contains fluid or semisolid material.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Vaginal cysts may form as a result of trauma sustained by the vaginal walls which subsequently does not heal to normal smoothness. Gartner's duct cysts develop in the space occupied by the Gartner's duct. This duct is active in the fetus but disappears after birth. Benign tumors of the vagina are uncommon and are usually cystic. Vaginal trauma is the only known risk factor.