The Skene's glands, also called paraurethral/periurethral glands, are two glands the size of a corn grain located around the urethra (the channel through which urine exits). However, their orifices are the same thickness as a pin. At the time of orgasm, their role is to secrete a fluid that can be very clear to slightly white, with varying thickness. The volume emitted during ejaculation varies; in general, the quantity is very small and this secretion goes unnoticed. The Skene's glands are the equivalent of the prostate in men.
The Skene's glands can become infected or inflamed. In both cases, the result can cause symptoms in the urinary tract similar to those of a urinary infection. Abscesses and cysts within these glands can also trigger such symptoms and become uncomfortable for the woman.
What are the signs and symptoms of Skene's gland inflammation or infection?
As with many urogenital diseases, symptoms can overlap with other diagnoses, including urinary infections, vaginal infections, or endometriosis. It is important to keep in mind that having one or more of the following symptoms does not necessarily indicate a Skene's gland disorder.
- Recurrent urinary infections
- Suprapubic pain (pain behind or near the pubic bone)
- Dysuria (pain or discomfort when urinating)
- Pain in the urethra
- White particles or mucus in the urine
- Difficulty urinating
- Vaginal discharge
- Pus from the Skene’s glands (different from female ejaculate)
- Dyspareunia (pain during or after sexual intercourse)
- Targeted tenderness around the Skene’s glands
- A small lump that can be felt by running your finger over it (this could be a Skene’s gland cyst or, if it’s in a different area, a genital mass)
What causes infection or inflammation of the Skene's glands?
There are several different organisms that can infect the Skene's glands :
- Gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection that is primarily found in the vagina.
- The e.coli bacteria, present in the intestines and feces of a healthy person and in animals. However, it can migrate to the urinary tract, causing an infection.
- The vaginal flora, that is, all the organisms that populate the inside of the vagina.
How do Skene's gland cysts form?
Skene's canal cysts form when the canals are blocked, usually when the gland is infected. They are mainly seen in adults and most of the time, they cause only mild irritation. Larger cysts (more than 1 cm) can cause pain during sexual intercourse or sometimes even when urinating.
Skene's gland cysts can also become infected; this causes abscesses and urinary infections. In addition, they tend to recur. Rarely, Skene's canal abscesses (if they are large enough) can obstruct the urethra and affect urination.
How can this condition be diagnosed?
- Pelvic exam : observation of the glands (appearance, presence of pus, etc.), palpation, etc.
- Urine culture, if the sample contains the very first drops of the urine stream.
- Cystoscopy, if there is suspicion of a urethral diverticulum (hernia of the mucosa).
What are the possible treatments?
Infections and abscesses can be treated with antibiotics.
Skene's gland cysts tend to recur and can cause bothersome symptoms for the patient; they can be resected under local anesthesia. At Les Cliniques Marois, our urologists first insert a urinary catheter and then make a suburethral vaginal incision. This is followed by dissection of the cyst (taking care not to perforate it or injure the urethra), excision with electrocautery, hemostasis and closure with dissolving stitches. The urinary catheter is often left in place for a few days.
Are there any preventive measures?
Yes! To avoid infections in the vulva and in particular in the Skene glands, it is recommended to :
- Wash your genitals at least once a day during a bath or shower ;
- Do not use a washcloth that could contain germs, but prioritize to clean your hands beforehand ;
- Avoid foaming antiseptics such as gels, soaps or bath products containing perfume and prioritize a mild, perfume-free soap with a neutral pH ;
- Do not use perfumes or deodorant on your vulva. If your vaginal secretions have an unusual appearance and/or a very unpleasant odor, consult your doctor.