The Skene’s gland is a small but clinically significant structure in the female urogenital system. Although not as widely discussed as other reproductive organs, the Skene’s gland plays a crucial role in urinary health and is closely linked to female sexual physiology.
Understanding what is Skene’s gland, its anatomy, function, and related medical conditions is essential for both patients and healthcare professionals.
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What is Skene’s Gland?
The Skene’s glands, also known as the paraurethral glands, are considered the female homologues of the male prostate. They develop from the same embryological tissue. Because of this similarity, Skene’s glands share some structural and biochemical features with the prostate.
It includes the production of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in small amounts. Skene’s glands, found in females, are located at the lower end of the urethra. The glands play a significant role in lubrication during sexual intercourse.
Skene’s glands originate from embryonic tissue identical to that which forms the male prostate, which is why they are sometimes described as the female equivalent of the prostate. These structures usually function without causing problems, although on occasion they may become irritated or infected. Very rarely, malignant changes can arise within this tissue. Skenitis is a common disorder of Skene’s glands.
The glands take their name from Alexander Johnston Chalmers Skene. The doctor who first described them in medical literature. They are also known by several alternative terms, including paraurethral glands, periurethral glands, lesser vestibular glands, and Skene’s ducts.
Where are Skene’s Glands located?
The Skene’s glands are situated along the anterior wall of the vagina. They are closely adjacent to the far portion of the urethra, with their small ducts opening near the urethral meatus. This close anatomical relationship with the urethra explains why conditions affecting the Skene’s glands often present with urinary symptoms.
In healthy individuals, the glands remain very small and function quietly in the background. They contribute to urethral lubrication and local defence. As a result, they are not usually visible or palpable during a routine pelvic examination and typically only become noticeable when they are enlarged, obstructed, or affected by infection or inflammation.
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What are the functions of Skene’s Glands?
Skene’s glands play a role in urinary health and sexual function by secreting fluid that helps lubricate the urethra and may contribute to female ejaculation.
(a) Supporting Urethral Lubrication
The Skene’s glands produce a small amount of fluid that helps keep the urethra moist. This lubrication supports comfortable urination and reduces irritation around the urethral opening, especially during activities such as sexual intercourse.
(b) Helping protect against Urinary Infections
The fluid released by the Skene’s glands is thought to contain natural antimicrobial properties. These may help limit the growth of bacteria near the urethra, supporting the body’s natural defences and potentially reducing the risk of urinary tract infections.
(c) Role in sexual arousal
During sexual stimulation, the Skene’s glands may become active and release fluid. In some women, this contributes to increased sexual arousal and, in certain cases, fluid release that is sometimes referred to as female ejaculation. This response varies widely and is a normal part of sexual physiology for some individuals.
(d) Similar to the male prostate
The glands develop from the same embryological tissue as the male prostate. As a result, they are capable of producing small amounts of prostate-specific antigen. This similarity has led to Skene’s glands being described as the female equivalent of the prostate.
(e) Maintaining local urethral health
By contributing to lubrication, local immune defence, and tissue support around the urethra, the glands play a quiet but important role in maintaining urinary and pelvic health. When functioning normally, they do not cause symptoms and often go unnoticed.
What are the common disorders of Skene’s Gland?
The Skene’s glands are usually asymptomatic, but when affected by disease or obstruction, they can lead to discomfort and urinary symptoms that often resemble other urological conditions. The most common disorders affecting the Skene’s glands are outlined below.
(a) Skene’s gland infection (Skenitis)
One of the most frequent conditions is skenitis. It occurs when bacteria infect the Skene’s gland or its ducts. This infection often presents with symptoms similar to a urinary tract infection. Burning on urination, increased frequency, urethral pain, and painful intercourse are some of them. This overlap can lead to Skene’s gland infections being mistaken for recurrent UTIs.
(b) Skene’s gland cyst
A Skene’s gland cyst develops when the duct of the gland becomes blocked, leading to the accumulation of fluid. Small cysts may remain unnoticed and cause no symptoms, while larger cysts can cause pressure, pain, difficulty passing urine, or discomfort during sexual activity.
- Skene’s gland abscess
If a Skene’s gland infection is left untreated, it may progress to an abscess, which is a painful collection of pus within the gland. An abscess can cause significant swelling, redness, severe pain, and worsening urinary symptoms. This condition typically requires prompt medical treatment, including antibiotics and, in some cases, surgical drainage.
(c) Inflammation of the skene’s gland
Non-infectious inflammation of the Skene’s gland can also occur, often due to irritation or local trauma. This may cause tenderness, swelling, or mild urinary discomfort without clear signs of infection.
(d) Skene’s gland cancer
Cancer of the Skene’s gland is very rare. When it does occur, symptoms may include a persistent mass near the urethra, blood in the urine, pelvic pain, or urinary obstruction. Diagnosis usually requires specialist evaluation and biopsy.
What are the common symptoms of Skene’s gland disorder?
The symptoms of skene’s gland disorders can vary depending on the underlying condition, but they often overlap with common urinary or vaginal complaints. Because of their proximity to the urethra, these symptoms are frequently mistaken for recurrent urinary tract infections.
Consult immediately when you see these symptoms:
- Burning or pain during urination
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Pain or pressure near the urethral opening
- Recurrent UTI-like symptoms that do not improve with treatment
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Swelling, tenderness, or a small lump near the urethra
- Difficulty starting urine flow or a weak stream
- Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
- Persistent pelvic or urethral discomfort
Conclusion
The Skene’s glands, though small and often overlooked, play an important role in the female urogenital system. Their close relationship with the urethra explains their involvement in urinary comfort, local immune defence, and aspects of sexual physiology. In most women, these glands function normally without causing symptoms, but infection, blockage, or inflammation can lead to discomfort and urinary symptoms that often mimic urinary tract infections.
If you have concerns about the Skene’s glands, a healthcare professional can offer proper evaluation and guidance.
FAQs
1. What is Skene’s Gland?
The Skene’s gland is a small but clinically significant structure in the female urogenital system.
2. Are Skene’s glands normal in all women?
The Skene’s gland is a small but clinically significant structure in the female urogenital system.
3. Can Skene’s gland problems be mistaken for UTIs?
Yes, Skene’s glands are a normal part of female anatomy, although their size and activity may vary between individuals.
4. Are Skene’s gland conditions serious?
Yes, symptoms often closely resemble urinary tract infections, which is why Skene’s gland disorders may be misdiagnosed.
5. How are Skene’s gland disorders treated?
Most conditions are mild and treatable. Serious complications are uncommon when medical care is sought early.
6. Is Skene’s gland cancer common?
No, cancer of the Skene’s gland is rare, but persistent or unusual symptoms should always be medically evaluated.
