All women are exposed to the risk of having illnesses that do not develop in men. An example of these illnesses are gynecologic abnormalities. A woman who has a gynecologic disorder like epidermal and inclusion cysts goes into a realm of painful suffering that a man will not really know.  

Epidermal and inclusion cysts are abnormal growths that are located in the vulva. The vulva is the external part of the reproductive system of women. Some of the parts of the vulva are the clitoris, labia minora, labia majora, mons pubis, urethra, and the outer vagina.  

Epidermal and Inclusion Cysts as Types of Gynecologic Cysts

Epidermal and inclusion cysts are kinds of gynecologic cysts. Gynecologic cysts are those that grow in any part of the woman’s reproductive system like the vulva, uterus, cervix, and vagina. Cysts are closed sacs containing a gelatin-like matter that grow separately from the surrounding tissues.

Inclusion cysts of the vulva are closed sacs containing epithelial tissues located at the surface of the vulva. Epidermal cysts of the vulva are no different from vulvar inclusion cysts, but they originate particularly from the sebaceous glands of the vulva. Both epidermal and inclusion cysts grow with abnormal cells and may be infected.

Causes of Epidermal and Inclusion Cysts of the Vulva

The cause of inclusion cyst of the vulva can be trauma like laceration, while epidermal cyst maybe a result when the ducts of the sebaceous glands are clogged.
One cause of epidermal and inclusion cysts is the incision made in the vulva among women who have previously undergone surgery. An example of this surgery is episiotomy or the surgical procedure done to aid         childbirth.
Another cause of epidermal and inclusion cysts of the vulva are previous cysts that have recur.

Symptoms of Epidermal and Inclusion Cysts of the Vulva

Epidermal and inclusion cysts that are small and uninfected may be asymptomatic. Larger, infected ones have symptoms. Large, infected epidermal and inclusion cysts are painful especially during sexual intercourse. Painful sexual intercourse is called dyspareunia. Infected epidermal and inclusion cysts are red and feel tender to the touch. There is usually swelling and pain in the area. These cysts may also cause irritation.  

Diagnosing Epidermal and Inclusion Cysts

A doctor may start diagnosing this illness by obtaining gynecologic history through asking questions pertaining to conditions of the reproductive system. After gynecologic history is obtained, a pelvic examination is undertaken by the physician. The doctor may touch and see the epidermal and inclusion cysts.

Treating Epidermal and Inclusion Cysts of the Vulva

After definitive diagnosis is made, treatment follows. Epidermal and inclusion cysts that are small and not infected may not require treatment, but for those cysts that cause symptoms, surgical excision maybe necessary. Surgical excision is done by a trained expert only. In surgery, the cyst may be entirely removed or a small cut is made on the affected area.  Stitches are also made to drain the sacs and keep them opened. The doctor will use a local anesthetic so that the patient will not feel the pain during the process.