Vaginal Lesion Removal — Identified on Examination, Removed in the Office
Benign lesions within the vaginal canal — polyps, inclusion cysts, Gartner’s duct cysts, condyloma, and other growths — are identified on pelvic examination and can be removed in the office under local anesthesia. Most women are unaware these lesions are present until they are found incidentally during a routine pelvic exam or Pap smear.
Vaginal lesion removal follows the same general process as other in-office gynecologic procedures: local anesthesia numbs the area, the lesion is excised or removed using the appropriate technique, and the specimen is sent to pathology for histologic confirmation. The procedure takes 15–30 minutes and most women return to normal activity the same day.
Some vaginal lesions do not require removal — small, asymptomatic, clearly benign cysts that are stable on serial examination can be observed. Dr. Andrei evaluates each finding individually and discusses whether removal is recommended or observation is appropriate for your specific lesion.
Vaginal Lesions Removed In the Office
The following are the most common vaginal lesions removed at Lapeer Women’s Health. All are benign in the vast majority of cases and confirmed by pathology.
Vaginal polyps
Benign fleshy growths attached to the vaginal wall by a stalk — often identified incidentally on pelvic examination or Pap smear. Removed by excision and sent to pathology.
Vaginal inclusion cysts
Small cysts formed from vaginal epithelium trapped beneath the surface — commonly found along episiotomy or repair scars. Excised when symptomatic or growing.
Gartner's duct cysts
Cysts arising from embryologic remnants along the anterolateral vaginal wall — typically asymptomatic but removed when causing pressure, pain, or urinary symptoms.
Vaginal condyloma (genital warts)
HPV-related warts within the vaginal canal — treated by excision or ablation. Vaginal condyloma frequently coexist with vulvar condyloma and are addressed in the same or a staged session.
Vaginal wall cysts of uncertain type
Any vaginal cyst that is symptomatic, growing, or clinically uncertain — excised and sent to pathology to characterize the cyst type and confirm benign diagnosis.
Hymenal remnants causing symptoms
Persistent hymenal tissue causing pain with intercourse, tampon use, or examination — minor surgical trimming under local anesthesia provides relief.
The Vaginal Lesion Removal Procedure
Vaginal lesion removal is performed with a speculum in the office exam room. The procedure is similar in structure to other minor in-office gynecologic procedures — local anesthesia, removal, pathology, same-day discharge.
Speculum Placement and Visualization
A speculum is placed and the lesion is visualized directly. Dr. Andrei confirms the location, size, and accessibility of the lesion and explains the removal technique she will use.
Local Anesthesia
The base of the lesion and surrounding vaginal wall are injected with local anesthetic. A brief burning sensation occurs during injection. Once the area is numb, the procedure is typically painless.
Lesion Removal
The lesion is excised using scissors, a scalpel, or an electrosurgical instrument depending on type and location. The base is cauterized or sutured for hemostasis. Sutures, if placed, are absorbable.
Pathology and Instructions
The specimen is sent to pathology. You receive wound care instructions before leaving. Results are reviewed with you within one to two weeks.
Mild vaginal discomfort and light spotting are expected for a few days. Avoid tampons, intercourse, and tub baths for two weeks to allow the vaginal wall to heal. Pathology results are available in one to two weeks. Call the office if you develop significant bleeding, increasing pain, or signs of infection.
Questions About Vaginal Lesion Removal
Found on Exam or Causing Symptoms?
In-Office Removal Is Straightforward.
If a vaginal lesion has been identified on examination — or if you have vaginal pressure, spotting, or discomfort that may be related to a lesion — schedule an evaluation with Dr. Andrei at either Lapeer or Rochester Hills.
Gynecologic care for women of every age
Lapeer Women’s Health — Rochester Hills
2710 S Rochester Rd, Suite 2
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Serving patients in Lapeer, Rochester Hills, and surrounding communities throughout Southeast Michigan.