Overview Of Bartholin’s Gland Cyst
Bartholin’s glands are on either side of the vaginal opening. These pea-sized glands produce the fluid that keeps the vagina moist. Bartholin’s gland cysts are a buildup of fluid or pus. Other names are Bartholin’s gland abscess and infected Bartholin’s gland.
Causes Of Bartholin’s Gland Cyst
If gland ducts become blocked, fluid backs up. Cysts form, but they may remain asymptomatic. They are usually benign, and not cancerous. However, the cysts can become infected, creating an abscess. Once infected, the area becomes swollen, hot, and extremely painful. Any activity that puts pressure on the area, such as sex, sitting, or walking, can hurt.
It is unknown why the ducts become blocked, but the abscess (infection) may result from the body’s own E. coli bacteria. Wipe carefully, ladies! While uncommon, sexually transmitted infections, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be the cause of infection. Excess fluid production may also result in a cyst. One in five women will develop a Bartholin’s gland cyst, usually in their twenties. They become less likely with age.
Symptoms
A tender lump on one side or the other of the vaginal opening
Pain when sitting, walking, or with sexual intercourse
Swelling, pressure, and redness of the vaginal area
Fever and chills, especially in those with lowered immunity
Exams & Tests
Your doctor will do a pelvic exam, checking if the glands are tender and enlarged. They will then send samples of vaginal discharge or abscess contents to a lab for testing. In older women, the doctor may suggest a biopsy in order to look for a type of cancer that affects the vulva.
Treatment Of Bartholin’s Gland Cyst
SELF-TREATMENT
Soaking in hot water 2-3 times a day, over several days, will help ease discomfort. Additionally, the cyst can open and drain on its own from the heat. However, the opening is often very small and seals quickly. Therefore, the cyst is likely to return, and can become an abscess.
SURGICAL DRAINAGE OF THE ABSCESS
A medical professional will perform this procedure out in-office, under local anaesthesia. They will first make a 1 to 2 centimetre incision at the site of the infection. The cyst is drained, and the resulting cavity flushed with saline solution. You may have a small catheter for 4-6 weeks. This allows for continued drainage during the healing process. Sutures are not typically required. You may recieve antibiotics. Surgical drainage of Bartholin’s gland cysts offers quick relief of symptoms, and the shortest recovery time. You should begin soaking in warm water 1 to 2 days after the procedure. Until the catheter is removed, sexual intercourse is discouraged.
MARSUPIALISATION
Another option is marsupialisation. This minor surgery can be done in-office, under local anaesthesia, or in hospital, under general anaesthesia. An elliptical opening is created along the cyst. The abscess is removed, and the edges sutured together. You should begin soaking in warm water 1 to 2 days afterwards. Sexual intercourse is discouraged for at least 4 weeks after surgery. You can use OTC pain meds as necessary after the procedure. Your doctor may also give you a prescription for narcotic pain medication.
EXCISION
Bartholin’s gland cysts can become a chronic issue. If this happens, complete removal of the glands may be necessary. This involves surgical removal of the entire cyst wall. Excisions are carried out in hospital, under general anaesthesia. Sexual intercourse is discouraged for 4 weeks after surgery. You can use OTC meds as necessary after the procedure. Your doctor may also give you a prescription for narcotic pain medication.
