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Bartholin Gland Cyst

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Bartholin Gland Cyst

(Bartholin’s Cyst; Greater Vestibular Gland Cyst; Bartholin Gland Abscess)

Definition

A Bartholin gland cyst is a fluid sac in the opening of the vagina. If it becomes infected, it is called an abscess.

Causes

Bartholin glands make fluid that keeps the vagina moist. The glands can become blocked and cause a backup of fluid. This fluid creates the cyst.

Bacteria or viruses can get into the trapped fluid. They can grow and cause an infection.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of this problem are:

  • Infection
  • Injury or surgery in the area
  • Never having a pregnancy—or having a first pregnancy
  • Sexually transmitted infections

Symptoms

Bartholin gland cysts do not always cause problems. Those that do may cause:

  • A painless or tender lump on either side of the opening of the vagina
  • A lump that may grow
  • Pain and pressure with activities, such as walking or sex

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis may be based on the exam.

The doctor may need to rule out other problems. This may include testing fluids or tissue from the cyst. Sometimes imaging is done to look at the cyst.

Treatment

Small cysts without symptoms may not need treatment. Cysts that are causing problems may be treated at home with:

  • Sitz bath—sitting in a warm water bath to soften the cyst and help it drain
  • Medicine to ease pain or treat infection

Procedures can help drain cysts that are large or cause problems. Options are:

  • Catheterization—A tube is put into the cyst to drain the fluid.
  • Marsupialization—An incision is made in the cyst and stitched open—to drain fluids.
  • Gland removal—less common

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Bartholin gland cyst and abscess. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/bartholin-gland-cyst-and-abscess.
  • Bartholin’s cyst. NHS Choices website. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bartholins-cyst.
  • Bartholin’s gland cyst. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/condition/bartholins-gland-cyst.
  • Omole F, Kelsey RC,et al. Bartholin duct cyst and gland abscess: office management. Am Fam Physician. 2019;99(12):760-766.

Contributors

  • Elizabeth Margaret Prusak, MD
Last Updated:
2022-08-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.