However, most vulvar cysts do not affect fertility. This is because they develop outside the reproductive organs.
We spoke to Dr Kanchi Khurana, Associate Director – Department of Fertility at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Chandigarh, regarding how vulvar cysts may interfere with pregnancy and your fertility.
She says that a typical vulvar cyst does not interfere with the ovaries, uterus or fallopian tubes, which are the organs directly involved in conception.
Can Vulvar Cysts Affect Fertility?
In most cases, no. Vulvar cysts are located around the external genital area rather than inside the reproductive tract. Therefore, they generally do not interfere with ovulation, the uterus or the fallopian tubes.A small cyst that is painless and does not cause any problems may not require treatment. However, a larger cyst may cause discomfort, especially during walking, sitting, or engaging in sexual activity.
According to Dr Khurana, these cysts usually don’t affect your ability to get pregnant. But certain symptoms may affect your comfort during intercourse.
This is one reason why discussing a recurrent or symptomatic cyst with your gynaecologist can be useful when you are planning pregnancy.
What Happens If A Vulvar Cyst Becomes Infected?
Sometimes, a cyst can become infected and develop into an abscess. This can cause significant pain, swelling and, in some cases, fever.Treatment depends on the type of cyst, its size, your symptoms and whether an infection is present. Some cysts settle without treatment, while others may require drainage or a minor procedure.
If you develop increasing pain, swelling, redness or fever, arrange a medical assessment rather than trying to manage the lump yourself.
Dr Kanchi Khurana adds that treating an uncomfortable or infected cyst before pregnancy may make sexual activity and pregnancy more comfortable, even though the cyst itself would not normally affect fertility.
Should You Treat A Vulvar Cyst Before Pregnancy?
Not every vulvar cyst needs to be removed before you become pregnant. If it is small, painless, and not causing problems, your doctor may recommend monitoring it.However, if you have a recurrent, painful or symptomatic cyst, discuss it with your gynaecologist. Depending on its characteristics, your doctor can advise whether treatment or further assessment is appropriate.
It is also important not to assume that every vulvar lump is a cyst. Persistent, unusual or recurrent lumps may have other causes and should be examined.
Dr Kanchi Khurana highlights that persistent or unusual vulvar lumps should always be assessed rather than being assumed to be a simple cyst. Getting an accurate diagnosis can help ensure that any necessary treatment is provided before or during pregnancy.
Most vulvar cysts do not affect fertility or prevent pregnancy. However, recurrent, painful or unusual vulvar lumps should be assessed so that the correct diagnosis and treatment can be provided.
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FAQs on Vulvar Cysts and Pregnancy: Do They Affect Fertility?
- Can a Bartholin cyst cause infertility?
Usually, no. A Bartholin cyst develops near the vaginal opening and does not affect the ovaries, uterus or fallopian tubes. Therefore, it generally does not interfere with your ability to conceive. - Can I get pregnant if I have a vulvar cyst?
Yes. Most vulvar cysts do not affect fertility. However, a painful or infected cyst may make sexual activity uncomfortable, so discuss persistent symptoms with your gynaecologist. - Does a vulvar cyst need treatment before pregnancy?
Not always. Small, painless cysts may not require treatment. Larger, painful, infected or recurrent cysts may need medical assessment and, in some cases, drainage or another procedure.
