1. Avoid Trauma to the Vagina
Vaginal cysts are small clumps of tissue attached to the area around the vaginal opening. They can be filled with fluid-like substances or more semi-solid materials. In general, they occur as the result of trauma to the vagina in the form of childbirth or surgery. When the walls of the vagina do not heal smoothly after a hysterectomy or after an episiotomy, for example, vaginal cysts can develop along the scar lines. This means that it is difficult to prevent vaginal cysts, as they are byproducts of necessary procedures.
If you are pregnant, you can ask your doctor not to perform an episiotomy and just let your body tear naturally as the baby is born. This is not a surefire way to prevent cysts, though, because even your natural tear may heal imperfectly, allowing for the development of tissue lumps.
If your doctor recommends a hysterectomy, it is usually because she feels it is medically necessary to prevent other problems like spreading cancer or further hemorrhaging. If you do not have a life-threatening situation and you are concerned about vaginal cysts, you should talk to your doctor about hysterectomy alternatives. For example, if you are experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, you may be able to solve the problem with endometrial ablation. This minimally invasive procedure uses the heat from a long, telescopic tube to burn off your uterine lining. The chance of developing vaginal cysts may be lower with this surgery than with a hysterectomy.
2. Practice Good Hygiene to Prevent Infection
When preventing vaginal trauma is not possible, you can do your best to treat the symptoms and keep any lumps from getting worse. When you discover a vaginal cyst, you can prevent it from getting infected and causing you more pain by maintaining good hygiene, keeping your perineal area clean with mild soap and always having safe sex.
3. Have Your Doctor Check for Cysts After Vaginal Trauma
Every time you see your gynecologist, you can ask him to check for vaginal cysts. Let your doctor know about any symptoms you have experienced, especially pain during intercourse or tampon insertion. If any vaginal cysts are detected and they are causing you problems, your doctor can schedule a quick surgery to get rid of them before they get larger and more painful.
