What are nabothian cysts?

Nabothian cysts are benign cervical cysts that are formed when mucus-secreting glands in the cervix become obstructed due to metaplasia, which is the transformation of one type of tissue into another. This process can lead to the accumulation of mucus in the glands, resulting in fluid-filled sacs, or cysts. These cysts are typically asymptomatic and are often found incidentally during pelvic examinations or imaging studies.

Understanding the context of nabothian cysts highlights their benign nature, differentiating them from malignant growths or fibrous tumors. They do not require surgical intervention unless they cause symptoms, which is not the case for most individuals. The correct answer emphasizes the relationship between metaplasia and the formation of these cysts, providing crucial insight into their pathology in a clinical setting.