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18-09-2024 Team Medicover woman-and-child

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr N Raga Reddy, Gynecologists

Bartholin's Cysts in Women

Bartholin's cysts are fluid-filled swellings that can develop near the opening of the vagina when the Bartholin’s glands become blocked. These glands are responsible for producing fluid that helps lubricate the vagina. Bartholin’s cysts are usually painless but they can sometimes become infected, forming an abscess that leads to swelling, discomfort and pain.

This condition is very common among women of reproductive age and can range from mild to more severe, depending on the size of the cyst and whether infection is present.

In this article, we will learn about the symptoms, causes and treatment options to manage Bartholin cysts effectively and prevent complications.

What Are Bartholin's Cysts?

Bartholin's cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in the Bartholin's glands, located on either side of the vaginal opening. These glands are responsible for secreting fluid that helps lubricate the vagina. When the ducts of these glands become blocked, leading to the formation of a cyst.

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What are the Symptoms of Bartholin's Cysts in Women?

Bartholin's cysts often develop silently, especially if they are small. Many women may not notice any symptoms unless the cyst grows in size or becomes infected. As the cyst enlarges or turns into an abscess, certain symptoms may appear:

A painless lump near the vaginal opening on one side.
Swelling in the vulvar area that may feel tender to touch.
Discomfort while walking, sitting or during sexual intercourse, especially if the cyst becomes large.
Redness and warmth around the area of the cyst become infected.
Fever or chills, which may indicate the formation of an abscess (infected cyst).
Pus or fluid drainage from the cyst in case it bursts or is draining naturally.

What are the Causes of Bartholin's Cysts in Women?

The main cause of Bartholin's cysts is the blockage of the Bartholin's gland ducts. Several factors can contribute to this blockage:

Infection

Infection is one of the common causes of duct blockage. Bacterial infections like sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea and chlamydia can cause inflammation and swelling, leading to a blocked duct.

Injury or Trauma

Injury or trauma to the vaginal area like from surgery or physical activity, can cause the ducts to become blocked. This can result in the formation of a cyst as the fluid accumulates.

Mucus Build-Up

Sometimes, an excess of mucus can block the ducts. This build-up can occur due to hormonal changes or other health conditions.

Side Effects or Complications of Bartholin's Cysts

Many Bartholin's cysts are small and harmless but they can sometimes lead to complications if they become infected or recur frequently. Here are some possible side effects and complications:

Infection and Abscess Formation: If bacteria enter the cyst, it can become infected, turning into a painful abscess filled with pus. This can cause intense swelling, redness and difficulty in walking or sitting.
Recurring Cysts: Some women may have ongoing problems with Bartholin's cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that can form near the vaginal area. Even after treatment, these cysts can come back due to infections or blockages that cause discomfort that may need more advanced treatment.
Scarring or Gland Damage: If a woman has surgery or procedures done on these cysts multiple times, it can create scarring in the affected area. This scarring might impact how well the glands work in the future and could lead to discomfort during other activities.
Pain and Discomfort: Large or infected cysts can cause pain during daily activities, sexual intercourse or when wearing tight clothing.
Emotional Distress: The presence of a noticeable lump or discomfort in the genital area can cause stress, embarrassment or anxiety if the condition recurs.

What Increases Your Risk of Bartholin's Cysts?

Bartholin's cysts can develop when the ducts of the Bartholin's glands become blocked. While they can affect any woman, certain factors may increase the risk of developing these cysts.

Common risk factors include:

Age between 20 and 30 years: Women of reproductive age are more prone to developing Bartholin’s cysts.
Previous history of Bartholin’s cysts or abscesses
Poor intimate hygiene can increase the risk of infections.
Sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia can block the gland and lead to cysts.
Frequent vaginal infections or irritation.
Injury or trauma to the genital area.

Treatment for Bartholin's Cysts in Women

Bartholin's cysts treatment are done based on the cyst size, its symptoms and infection. Here are some common treatment options:

Home Remedies

If you have small cysts without any symptoms, you can manage them with simple home treatments. One effective method is taking warm baths, where you sit in warm water for about 10-15 minutes a few times each day. This can help reduce swelling and encourage the cyst to drain.

Medications

If the cyst gets infected, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Some pain relievers can also help ease any discomfort you're feeling.

Drainage

For larger cysts, a doctor may need to perform a procedure to drain it. This involves making a small cut in the cyst to remove the fluid. Sometimes, a small tube may be placed inside the cyst to keep it open and allow for continuous drainage.

Marsupialization

If cysts or infections keep returning, a doctor may suggest a procedure called marsupialisation. This procedure creates a small permanent opening in the cyst, allowing it to drain regularly and helping to prevent future blockages.

Gland Removal

In some cases, if other treatments don't work, a doctor might recommend removing the Bartholin's gland. This is usually seen as a last option because there are potential risks and complications that come with the surgery.

How to Prevent Bartholin's Cysts in Women?

All Bartholin's cysts can not be prevented or cured but some measures can be taken to reduce the risk:

Practice Good Hygiene

Maintaining good personal hygiene can help you prevent infections that may lead to cyst formation. Regularly washing the genital area with mild soap and water is essential.

Safe Sexual Practices

Using condoms and avoiding too many sexual partners can reduce the risk of STIs, which are a common cause of Bartholin's cysts.

Regular Check-Ups

Regular gynaecological check-ups can help detect any issues early and help in effective treatment to prevent complications.

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Conclusion

Bartholin's cysts can be an uncomfortable and sometimes painful condition for women. Understanding the causes, symptoms and its complications is essential for effective treatment and prevention. By practising good hygiene, safe sexual practices and timely medical care, you can reduce the risk of developing Bartholin's cysts and manage them effectively if they do occur.

Frequently Asked Questions

Small cysts are often painless, but if they become infected or grow larger, they can cause pain, redness and swelling.

Doctors usually diagnose them through a physical examination. If you're over 40 or the cyst is unusual, they may recommend a biopsy or lab tests to rule out other conditions.

Yes, small and non-infected cysts can go away without treatment. Warm compresses or sitz baths may help them drain naturally.

You should see a doctor if the cyst is painful, growing, infected or if it recurs frequently.

They are almost always benign. However, in women over 40, doctors may suggest tests to rule out rare glandular cancers.

Yes, large or painful cysts can make sex uncomfortable or painful. Treating the cyst usually relieves this issue.