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A nabothian cyst is a mucus-filled lump on the surface of the cervix.

The cervix is lined with cells that release mucus. These cells can become covered by a type of skin cells called squamous epithelium. When this happens, the secretions build up in the plugged cells. They form a smooth, rounded bump on the cervix. The bump is called a nabothian cyst.

Each nabothian cyst appears as a small, white pimple. There can be more than one.

There are no symptoms.

During a pelvic exam, the doctor will see a small, smooth, rounded lump (or collection of lumps) on the surface of the cervix. Rarely, a colposcopy is necessary to distinguish nabothian cysts from other bumps and sores that can occur on the cervix.

No treatment is necessary. Nabothian cysts do not cause any problems.

They do not go away by themselves, but the cysts can be easily removed at the doctor's office using electrocautery or cryotherapy. This is rarely necessary.

Nabothian cysts do not cause any harm. They are a benign condition.

Rarely, cysts become so numerous or enlarged that the cervix becomes enlarged or blocked, making it difficult to take a Pap smear.

This condition is usually discovered during a routine pelvic examination.

There is no known prevention.

Lentz GM. History, physical examination, and preventive health care: general, gynecologic, and psychosocial history and examination, health care maintenance, disease prevention. In: Katz, VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier; 2007:chap 7.

Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.