What causes cervical cysts?

Childbirth and physical trauma to the cervix can cause cervical cysts, also known as nabothian cysts, according to Healthline. Nabothian cysts are filled with naturally occurring mucus of the cervix and form as a result of clogged skin cells. Cervical cysts are normally small bumps and are white in appearance.

Cervical cysts are common and are oftentimes not cancerous, as Mayo Clinic details. Cervical cysts typically develop without any symptoms and are detected by a doctor during a pelvic exam. If other symptoms exist, such as pelvic pain or bleeding, the doctor may perform a biopsy to test for cancerous cells.