Bartholin glands are fluid filled small structures that are located on each side of the vaginal opening. Their main function is to produce fluid which keeps the vagina moist. The fluid they produce is transported to the vagina through small tubes called ducts. If the ducts get blocked, fluid flows backwards into the Bartholin gland resulting in swelling. The swelling is called a cyst.
What are the causes?
In most cases the cause is not known but it has been observed that in some instances they are caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia. It is expected that every 2 in 10 women will have a Bartholin's cyst in their life time. They typically happen around the age of 20 to 30. They are not commonly observed as one grows older.
What are the symptoms?
You may not know you have a Bartholin cyst unless it grows very big or it gets infected. When it gets infected it is usually very painful. Sex or even walking may become painful because of it. You may also have fever and an unpleasant vaginal discharge. If the cyst is very big it may make one side of your labia hang lower than the other.
How would you know if you have a Bartholin cyst?
Only your doctor, typically a gynaecologist, would tell you with certainty. He/she would typically do a physical examination of your privates and would most likely collect samples of the discharge for laboratory examination to check if you also have an STI. If you are above the age of 40 the doctor will take a biopsy (cut a small piece of the cyst) to check for cancer of the vulvar (lips of the vagina).
What is the treatment for Bartholin cyst?
If there is evidence of infection your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. In addition, sitting in salty water is helpful. The cyst may burst and drain on its own. If the Bartholin cyst persists or forms an abscess your doctor will perform surgery. Surgical options for this condition are outside the scope of this write up but you can discuss options with your doctor.
(Image by Hillstead)
0 Comments