Hello Doctor,
I have a red spot next to my urethra. There isn’t one on the other side. An OBGYN in the past told me it’s a Skene's gland. However, I don’t see anything online about the Skene's gland being red. To describe it… it almost looks like a cherry angioma. I asked my new OB, and she said she didn’t know the answer to my question and to make an appointment with a urologist. But that could take months to get in, and I don’t want to make an appointment only to ask 1 question.
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
The red spot you are describing next to your urethra is likely a Skene's gland cyst or abscess. While Skene's gland cysts are usually not red in color, an infected or inflamed Skene's gland can appear red and swollen.
Some key points: Skene's glands are small ducts located on either side of the urethra. They can sometimes become infected, leading to inflammation and the formation of cysts or abscesses. An infected Skene's gland, known as skenitis, may appear red, swollen, and tender to the touch. It can cause pelvic pain and pain during intercourse. Skenitis is often caused by bacteria like gonorrhea but can also result from a urinary tract infection spreading to the gland.
While rare, Skene's gland cysts and abscesses can block the urethra and cause urinary retention if large enough. Since you have a red, swollen spot only on one side, it is likely an infected or inflamed Skene's gland. The good news is that skenitis is usually treated with antibiotics. If the spot persists or worsens, it would be best to follow up with your gynecologist or a urologist to rule out any other causes and determine if antibiotic treatment is needed.
I hope this helps provide some insight into your condition! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Thanks
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