Understanding Skene’s Gland Cysts: Symptoms and Care
Updated: 3 days ago
Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026
Quick Answer: What is a Skene’s gland cyst?
A Skene's gland cyst is a rare, benign lump in the lubricating glands on either side of the female urethra. [1] It often goes unnoticed unless it grows large enough to cause pain or interfere with urination. It may be present at birth or develop from duct blockage or infection. [1] Treatment options include draining the cyst or marsupialization for permanent relief. [1] [3]
What the research says
Skene’s duct cysts are rare in newborns and may be under-recognized. A short review reports an incidence of 1 in 2,000 to 7,000 female births and notes that low awareness of the cyst and its benign nature may lead to wrong diagnoses that underestimate how common it is. Most authors favor conservative management (Parente Hernández et al., Actas Urol Esp, 2006 [2]).
Several treatments work, and doctors favor the least aggressive option. A case report and literature review concluded that cyst removal, marsupialization, puncture and aspiration are all effective, that spontaneous drainage is appropriate in some cases, and that the least aggressive technique should be chosen for each patient. The evidence base is small, mostly case reports (Miño and Rodríguez, Rev Chil Pediatr, 2014 [3]).
What is a Skene’s Gland Cyst?
A Skene’s gland cyst, also known as a paraurethral or Skene’s duct cyst, is a benign (non-cancerous) sac of tissue containing fluid that forms near the opening of the urethra. [1] The Skene’s glands are small structures located on either side of the urethra that produce fluid for lubrication. [1] When the duct of one of these glands becomes blocked, fluid builds up, resulting in a cyst. [1]
These cysts are considered rare, particularly in adults. [1] In newborns, they are known as congenital Skene’s gland cysts and are estimated to occur in approximately 1 in every 2,000 to 7,000 births. [1] [2] While hearing about a cyst in a sensitive area can be concerning, it is important to note that they are not cancerous and often do not require any medical intervention unless they cause specific symptoms.
What are the common symptoms of Skene's gland cysts?
Many Skene’s gland cysts are asymptomatic [1], meaning they do not cause any noticeable problems and are often discovered incidentally during a routine physical examination. When symptoms do occur, they typically manifest as a small, movable lump near the urethral opening. [1] The size of these cysts is generally less than 0.5 inches, roughly the size of a pea, though they can rarely grow larger.
If a cyst becomes large enough or becomes inflamed, it may interfere with normal bodily functions. Common issues include frequent urination, pain during urination (dysuria), or even an inability to pass urine (urinary retention). [1] Additionally, some individuals may experience pain during sexual intercourse or suffer from recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) as a result of the cyst’s presence. [1] For general background, see our guide to urinary tract infections.
Symptom Category | Common Signs | Potential Impact |
Physical | Movable lump near the urethra | Discomfort when sitting or moving |
Urinary | Painful or frequent urination | Increased risk of UTIs and retention |
Sexual | Pain during intercourse | Reduced comfort and sexual wellness |
Infection | Redness, swelling, or pus | Development of a painful abscess |
What causes Skene's gland cysts and how can they be prevented?
In newborns, the exact cause of a Skene’s gland cyst is unknown, though it is present at birth as a congenital condition. [1] In adults, the primary cause is a blockage of the Skene duct, which is often triggered by bacterial infections or chronic inflammation. [1] Repeated infections in the area can lead to scarring or debris that prevents the natural flow of lubricating fluid.
While congenital cysts cannot be prevented, adults can reduce their risk of developing a Skene’s gland cyst by practicing good hygiene and safe sexual habits. [1] Avoiding irritants such as scented soaps, scented tampons, or scented toilet paper can help maintain the health of the vulvar area. Additionally, using water-based lubricants and avoiding douching, which can disrupt the natural bacterial balance, may help lower the risk of duct blockages and infections. [1]
How are Skene's gland cysts diagnosed and told apart from other conditions?
Diagnosing a Skene’s gland cyst usually begins with a review of symptoms and a physical pelvic examination. [1] Because the area contains several different structures, it can be challenging to distinguish a Skene’s gland cyst from other similar conditions, such as a urethral diverticulum (a pocket along the urethra) or a Bartholin gland cyst (located on either side of the vaginal opening).
To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possibilities, healthcare providers may order imaging tests. An ultrasound or an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) can provide a detailed view of the cyst’s location and its relationship to the urethra. [1] This level of precision is essential for determining the most appropriate management plan, especially if surgery is being considered.
Condition | Typical Location | Distinguishing Feature |
Skene’s gland cyst | Near the urethral opening | Benign sac in the lubricating glands |
Urethral diverticulum | Along the urethral wall | A pocket that may hold urine [1] |
Bartholin gland cyst | Inside the vaginal opening | Affects the labia and deeper tissues |
Gartner cyst | Vaginal side walls | Develops from fetal duct remnants [1] |
How are Skene's gland cysts treated, and what is recovery like?
For asymptomatic cysts, particularly in infants, a “watch and wait” approach is often recommended, as many cysts resolve on their own without treatment. [1] [2] In adults, medical intervention is typically reserved for cysts that cause pain or urinary difficulties. One common treatment is therapeutic fine-needle aspiration, where a healthcare provider uses a small needle to drain the fluid from the cyst. [1]
For more persistent or severe cases, a surgical procedure called marsupialization may be performed. During this procedure, a surgeon makes a small incision in the cyst and stitches the edges open to allow for permanent drainage. [1] [3] Recovery from aspiration is usually very quick, while marsupialization may require two to four weeks for complete healing. [1] If a cyst becomes infected and forms an abscess, antibiotics and surgical drainage are necessary. [1]
Conclusion
Skene’s gland cysts are rare and generally harmless anatomical variations. For most people, they do not interfere with daily life and may never require treatment. However, when symptoms like pain or urinary issues arise, modern medical and surgical options provide highly effective relief with a very low chance of the cyst returning.
Maintaining open communication with a healthcare provider is the best way to manage any concerns regarding lumps or discomfort in the pelvic area. With a proper diagnosis and a personalized care plan, the outlook for those with a Skene’s gland cyst is excellent, allowing for a quick return to normal activities and long-term health.
Trusted resource: Cleveland Clinic: Skene’s Gland Cyst.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a Skene’s gland cyst?
A Skene’s gland cyst is a non-cancerous, fluid-filled sac that forms in the Skene’s glands, which are located near the opening of the female urethra.
Are Skene’s gland cysts common?
No, they are considered rare, especially in adults. They are most frequently reported in newborns.
What causes these cysts to form in adults?
Skene’s gland cysts are usually caused by a blockage in the Skene duct, often resulting from bacterial infections or inflammation.
Can a Skene’s gland cyst be cancerous?
No, these cysts are benign and do not increase the risk of developing vaginal or vulvar cancer.
What are the most common symptoms?
Many people have no symptoms, but some may experience a movable lump, pain during urination, or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
How big can these cysts grow?
Most are very small (less than 1 cm), but in very rare cases, they can grow to several centimeters in size.
How is a Skene’s gland cyst diagnosed?
A healthcare provider usually diagnoses it through a pelvic exam, sometimes supported by an ultrasound or MRI.
What is the difference between a Skene’s cyst and a Bartholin cyst?
A Skene’s cyst is near the urethra, while a Bartholin cyst forms in a gland on either side of the vaginal opening.
Do all Skene’s gland cysts require treatment?
No, if the cyst is small and not causing any pain or problems, it is usually left alone.
What is marsupialization?
Marsupialization is a surgical procedure where the cyst is opened and the edges are stitched to keep it open, allowing it to drain permanently.
Is fine-needle aspiration painful?
There may be some temporary soreness or bruising at the site, but most people feel better within a few days.
Can these cysts be prevented?
While congenital cysts cannot be prevented, adults can reduce their risk by practicing safe sex and good hygiene.
What is a Skene’s gland abscess?
An abscess occurs when the cyst becomes infected with bacteria, leading to pain, swelling, and the accumulation of pus.
How long does recovery take after surgery?
Recovery from marsupialization typically takes between two and four weeks.
Do Skene’s gland cysts come back after treatment?
It is very rare for these cysts to recur once they have been surgically treated or properly drained.
Related Reading
Skene’s Gland: Anatomy, Function, and Health explains where the Skene's glands are and what they do.
Bartholin Cyst: The Benign Lump Near the Vaginal Opening That's Usually Painless — and How to Handle It When It Isn't covers a similar fluid-filled cyst near the vaginal opening.
Urethral Caruncle: A Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms, Causes, and Care describes a small, usually benign growth at the urethral opening.
The Urethra: Anatomy, Function, and Urinary Health explains how the urethra works and common problems that affect it.
References
Cleveland Clinic. Skene’s Gland Cyst. Cleveland Clinic. September 16, 2024. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21892-skenes-gland-cyst
Parente Hernández A, Angulo Madero JM, del Cañizo López A, et al. [The paraurethral cyst or Skene’s duct cyst in the female newborn] (in Spanish). Actas Urol Esp. 2006;30(1):93-94. PMID 16703738. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0210-4806(06)73404-0
Miño A, Rodríguez J. [Skene duct cyst in female newborns: case reports] (in Spanish). Rev Chil Pediatr. 2014;85(5):584-587. PMID 25697435. https://doi.org/10.4067/S0370-41062014000500009
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
Comments