Understanding Bartholin Cyst

There are two Bartholin glands just below the opening of the vagina, one on each side. A Bartholin cyst or Bartholin gland cyst is a small fluid-filled sac that develops when the opening of a Bartholin gland is obstructed.

The affected organs can include the uterus (womb), vagina, bowel, bladder, urethra, and rectum.

Bartholin Cyst Symptoms

Bartholin cysts typically manifest as a painless lump in the vulva, often without additional symptoms. However, larger cysts may lead to discomfort during activities such as sexual intercourse, walking, or sitting. Even when asymptomatic, some individuals may find the cyst cosmetically displeasing.

In the event of infection, the cyst can develop into an abscess, characterised by the presence of pus-filled pockets. Bartholin abscess symptoms include swelling, redness, severe, and fever. Most Bartholin cysts are detected through routine pelvic examinations or by the patient themselves.

Bartholin Cyst Causes

The Bartholin glands, each approximately 1 cm in size, generate small amounts of fluid to maintain moisture in the vulva, the region around the vaginal opening. When the opening of a Bartholin gland is obstructed, fluid can amass, leading to the formation of a cyst. Typically, this occurs in a single gland rather than both simultaneously. 

The precise cause of duct obstruction remains unknown. Nonetheless, conditions such as sexually transmitted bacterial infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhoea, as well as other bacterial infections such as Escherichia coli (E.coli), have been linked to this condition.

Bartholin Cyst Diagnosis

Your doctor would first question your general health and symptoms before conducting a thorough physical examination. Diagnosis is made based on your reported symptoms, physical examination, and investigations.

If the cyst is infected, your doctor may use a swab to remove a sample of discharge to be sent for analysis in order to identify the bacteria responsible for the infection.

Bartholin Cyst Treatment

If there are no symptoms, treatment is not required. Treatment for Bartholin cyst typically depends on the cyst size, symptoms and whether it is infected (abscess).

1. Sitz baths or warm baths can relieve vaginal discomfort and pain. 
2. Hold a warm compress against the area.
3. Balloon catheter insertion to drain the cyst.
   • A small incision in the cyst is made to drain the fluid.
   • A little balloon might be inserted into the hole to prevent it from closing entirely.
   • The balloon is attached to a catheter that aids in the drainage of fluid from the Bartholin gland.
   • The doctor will remove the balloon in approximately one month. It leaves a little opening through which liquid can drain.
   • Antibiotics are not necessary in most cases, but it may be prescribed for those who have had an abscess previously or at high risk for the infection to spread.
4. Marsupialisation procedure to drain the cyst. The cyst is cut open, and the fluid is drained. The treated region may be loosely packed with gauze to absorb fluid from the incision and halt bleeding once the procedure is complete. This is usually removed before you return home.
5. Surgery to remove the affected Bartholin gland may be recommended if other treatment options have been ineffective. After surgery, you may be instructed to avoid sexual intercourse and avoid using tampons and perfumed bath products for up to 4 weeks to aid wound healing and reduce the risk of infection.

Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

If you suspect that you are experiencing symptoms of Bartholin cyst, get in touch with us to find out more about our Obstetrics & Gynaecology Servicesat your nearest Gleneagles Hospital.

You may also contact the Health Screening Centre at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital for health screening appointments