WHAT IS A BARTHOLINS CYST?

A Bartholin Cyst is a cyst or lump that is filled with pus. The cysts typically occur on only one side of the vaginal entrance. BARTHOLIN CYST LOCATION Bartholin Gland Cysts are formed on either of the Bartholin Glands. Bartholin Glands are tiny organs located close to the opening of the vagina of a woman. There are two Bartholin glands in every woman. These are positioned on either side of the vaginal opening. Bartholin Glands are also referred to as Greater Vestibular Gland or Vulvovaginal Gland. SYMPTOMS OF BARTHOLIN CYST Tenderness near the vaginal opening Painful sensation in the affected area Discomforting sensation while sitting, walking and any similar activity High body temperature often arises because of this abnormal vaginal condition.

CAUSES OF BARTHOLIN CYST A Bartholin Cyst develops when a duct of the Vulvovaginal Gland gets blocked. An obstruction of vaginal gland typically occurs due to a bacterial infection. A bacterial infection causes unnatural conditions such as the abnormal growth of a flap of skin. Abnormal skin growth blocks the duct, or opening of the gland, and leads to a buildup of fluids in the gland. When fluid has accumulated for a long period of time, an abscess or cyst develops in the Bartholin Gland.

BARTHOLIN CYST DIAGNOSIS A swollen and tender Bartholins gland is often diagnosed by a pelvic examination. Lab tests are also carried out to analyze any discharge from the vagina and check if there is a case of a sexually transmitted infection. BARTHOLIN CYST TREATMENT Antibiotic In patients with Bartholin Cyst antibiotics are used to destroy the infection-causing bacteria. Antibiotic treatment is usually carried out if tests reveal an infection or a sexually transmitted disease as the cause of Bartholin Cyst.

Marsupialization Marsupialization of Bartholin Cyst is a surgical process that involves making a slit on the cyst and stitching the edges of the incision. This creates a permanent opening that lets the cyst drain freely. The process is carried out in complicated cases where Bartholin Cyst removal becomes difficult and a single draining becomes ineffective. A doctor may also insert a catheter to promote draining for some days.