What is a Bartholin’s Cyst?
Bartholin Cyst | A Bartholin cyst is a fluid-filled cyst that occurs when the Bartholin glands (small glands located on either side of the vagina) become blocked. These glands produce secretions that help lubricate the vagina and provide comfort during sexual intercourse. However, sometimes the outlet channels of these glands can become blocked, causing fluid to accumulate in the gland. This accumulation can form a cyst over time.
A Bartholin cyst can vary in size and usually does not cause any symptoms. However, if the cyst grows or becomes infected, pain and discomfort may be felt. If an infection develops, symptoms such as redness, swelling, severe pain and tenderness may occur on the cyst.
Bartholin is often associated with sexual intercourse and vaginal infections. Factors such as hormonal changes, lack of vaginal hygiene, increased frequency of sexual activity or vaginal dryness may also increase the risk.
This condition usually does not go away on its own and may require treatment. Untreated Bartholin cysts can become infected and cause serious discomfort. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional when symptoms are noticed.
What are the symptoms of Bartholin’s Cyst?
Swelling and Tenderness: Bartholin cysts usually occur near the inner lips of the vagina, on both sides of the vaginal entrance. These cysts are often unilateral. Swelling and tenderness may be felt in the area where the cyst is. Touching or applying pressure may be painful.
Pain or Discomfort: Depending on the size of the cyst and the status of infection, pain or discomfort may be felt. These symptoms may increase especially during sexual intercourse or after standing for a long time. If the cyst content is inflamed and has become an abscess, it may cause severe pain that prevents the patient from walking or sitting.
Redness and Inflammation: When Bartholin is infected, redness and swelling may be seen on the cyst. In this case, there may also be an increase in temperature around the cyst.
Painful Urination and Sexual Intercourse: Infected Bartholin may cause pain while urinating or during sexual intercourse. This may indicate that the cyst is at greater risk of infection.
Difficulty Walking: Large or infected Bartholin cysts may cause discomfort during daily activities such as walking or sitting. In this case, the size and location of the cyst should be taken into account.
It is important for people who notice these symptoms to consult a healthcare professional, as Bartholin’s can become infected and lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Bartholin Cyst Causes
Blocked Bartholin Gland Ducts: The ducts that carry the secretions of the Bartholin glands to the vagina can become blocked. This blockage prevents the secretions produced by the gland from being discharged out of the vagina and can accumulate and cause cyst formation.
Vaginal Infections: Infection of the vagina or disruption of the balance of the vaginal flora can cause the Bartholin glands to become infected. Infection can lead to inflammation of the gland and cyst formation.
Sexual Intercourse: In some cases, pressure and friction around the vagina during sexual intercourse can cause blockage or irritation of the Bartholin glands. This can contribute to cyst formation.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, especially the use of hormonal contraceptives or menopause, can affect the structure and quantity of vaginal secretions. This can lead to blockage of the Bartholin glands and cyst formation.
Vaginal Hygiene: Excessive cleansing or aggressive hygiene practices can disrupt the natural balance of the vagina and increase the risk of infection. This can make it easier for Bartholin cysts to form.
Weakened Immune System: People with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to infections. In this case, the Bartholin glands may be more susceptible to infection and cyst formation may be more likely.
Any one or a combination of these factors can contribute to the formation of a Bartholin cyst. However, each situation is different and in some people, a definitive cause may not be determined.
How is a Bartholin’s Cyst Diagnosed?
Patient History and Evaluation of Symptoms: A detailed history is taken of the patient’s symptoms. Information is collected about symptoms such as swelling, pain, and redness. In addition, previous similar conditions or past vaginal infections are also examined.
Physical Examination: The doctor physically examines the patient’s genital area. He or she evaluates symptoms such as swelling, tenderness, and redness. Bartholin’s cysts usually feel noticeably swollen when touched.
Other Tests: In some cases, doctors may order culture tests or blood tests to determine if the cyst is infected. These tests can help determine the type and severity of the infection.
Ultrasound imaging is also useful in determining the size of the cyst.
A Bartholin’s cyst is usually diagnosed by physical examination and evaluation of symptoms. However, imaging tests and other laboratory tests may also be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and understand the nature of the cyst. It is important to see a health care professional to confirm the diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.
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Bartholin Cyst Complications
Bartholin cysts can lead to complications, especially if they become infected or are left untreated. Here are some of these complications:
Abscess Formation: When a Bartholin cyst becomes infected, the fluid inside it can become inflamed and turn into an abscess. In this case, pain, redness and swelling can increase over the cyst. If the abscess is not treated, it can lead to serious pain, widespread infections and more serious complications.
Recurrent Infections: Bartholin cysts that are not treated or cleaned completely can cause recurrent infections. In this case, constant pain, discomfort and a decrease in quality of life can occur.
Infertility Risk: Rarely, Bartholin cysts or infections can lead to serious pelvic infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease. In this case, the risk of tissue damage and infertility in the reproductive organs can increase.
Cancer Risk: Very rarely, especially in postmenopausal women, a Bartholin cyst can become cancerous. It can often be missed and diagnosed late. Therefore, it is recommended that women over the age of 40 have their glands removed to rule out the risk of cancer if there is no swelling.
These complications can occur if the Bartholin cyst becomes infected or is left untreated. Therefore, it is important to see a healthcare professional when symptoms are noticed or a diagnosis is made.
Bartholin Cyst Treatment Methods
Bartholin cyst treatment can vary depending on factors such as the size of the cyst, the extent of the infection, and the severity of symptoms. Here are some methods used to treat Bartholin cysts:
Home Care and Monitoring: Small and painless Bartholin cysts can usually be treated with home care and monitoring. Warm sitz baths or warm compresses can help shrink and relax the cyst. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.
Antibiotic Treatment: Infected Bartholin cysts are usually treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics are used to control the infection and reduce inflammation. Your doctor will prescribe an appropriate antibiotic depending on the type and severity of the infection.
Draining the Cyst: Large or painful Bartholin cysts usually require drainage. Your doctor may use a needle or surgical drainage to drain the contents of the cyst. This procedure is usually done in an office setting under local anesthesia.
Marsupialization: If a Bartholin cyst is a recurring problem or is constantly infected, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure called marsupialization. In this procedure, the wall of the cyst is cut and folded outward to create a new opening. This can reduce the risk of the cyst recurring.
Cyst Excision: Rarely, if a Bartholin cyst is very large or causes serious complications, it can be removed completely. In this surgical procedure, the cyst and surrounding tissue are surgically removed. Excision is also recommended for women over the age of 40 due to the risk of cancer.
Treatment for a Bartholin cyst can vary depending on the individual case and symptoms. Therefore, it is important to consult with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Esra Özbaşlı to determine the most appropriate treatment option.
