Bartholin's Cyst: Meaning, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Vineela Medapati , Gynecologists

A Bartholin's cyst is a round lump that forms near the vaginal opening when one of the Bartholin glands becomes blocked, causing fluid to build up. These cysts are often small and painless, but they can sometimes cause irritation or discomfort. If bacteria infect the cyst, it may develop into a painful abscess that often requires medical treatment like drainage or antibiotics.

Doctors often refer to Bartholin's cyst pathology outlines to classify and understand the nature of these cysts, including whether they are simple, recurrent or associated with infection.

What Are the Types of Bartholin's Cyst?

Bartholin cysts can be categorised into two main types: simple (non-infected) and infected (Bartholin abscess).

Simple (Non-infected) cyst

These are small, fluid-filled swellings that generally do not cause pain or problems. Many women may not even notice them unless they grow larger.

Infected cyst (Bartholin abscess)

If bacteria enter the blocked gland, the cyst can become painful, red, swollen and sometimes cause fever. Infected cysts often need drainage or antibiotics. Smaller, non-problematic cysts may be managed conservatively.

What Are the Symptoms of a Bartholin Cyst?

Not all Bartholin cysts cause noticeable symptoms. The Bartholin's cyst symptoms depend on the size of the cyst and whether it is infected.

Common symptoms include:

• A small bartholin's cyst may appear as a painless lump near the vaginal opening and may go unnoticed.
• Pain, swelling or tenderness on one side of the vulva can occur, especially with larger cysts.
• Discomfort during sexual intercourse, sitting or walking may be experienced.
• If the cyst becomes infected (Bartholin abscess), it may cause redness, warmth, severe pain, fever or pus discharge.

If the cyst remains small and painless, it may not cause any symptoms at all.

What Are the Bartholin Cyst Causes?

The primary cause of a Bartholin cyst is a blockage in the ducts that normally allow fluid to drain from the Bartholin glands. Several factors can contribute to this blockage:

• Bacterial infections: Infections caused by bacteria such as E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, gonorrhea or chlamydia can lead to duct obstruction.
• Thick mucus accumulation: Excess or thick mucus can clog the duct opening, preventing proper fluid drainage.
• Injury or irritation: Any injury, friction or irritation in the vulva area may damage the duct and cause blockage.
• Scar Tissue Formation: Scar tissue from previous infections or earlier cysts can obstruct the gland's duct, leading to fluid buildup.
• Poor Hygiene or Recurrent Infections: Lack of proper hygiene or frequent vaginal infections increases the risk of duct blockage and cyst development.

Risk factors for a Bartholin cyst

Certain factors increase the chances of developing a Bartholin cyst, including age, past history, sexual activity and hygiene habits:

• Women between 20 and 40 years are more likely to develop Bartholin cysts during their reproductive years.
• A previous history of Bartholin cysts increases the chance of recurrence.
• Unprotected sexual activity raises the risk of STIs, which can lead to gland infections.
• Having multiple sexual partners increases exposure to bacteria and infection risk.
• Poor genital hygiene may contribute to duct blockage and cyst formation.

When to See a Doctor?

You should see a gynecologist if you notice:

• A lump near the vaginal opening that grows larger.
• Persistent pain or discomfort.
• Redness, swelling and tenderness that suggest infection.
• Fever or general unwellness along with swelling.
• Cysts that keep coming back after treatment.

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How is a Bartholin Cyst Diagnosed?

A Bartholin cyst is usually diagnosed through a doctor's evaluation, which may include physical checks, lab tests and further examinations.

• The doctor checks the vulva for swelling, pain or infection.
• Fluid or pus may be tested to identify the germs.
• STI tests may be done for infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia.
• Women over 40 or with unusual cysts may need a tissue sample.

What is the Bartholin's Cyst Management and Treatment?

Treatment of Bartholin cysts varies with symptoms, size, and infection, including home remedies, medical care or surgery for severe or recurrent cases.

Self-care and home remedies

Mild Bartholin cysts can often improve with home care, like warm baths, pain relief and keeping the genital area clean to prevent infection.

• Warm baths may help the cyst drain naturally.
• Painkillers can reduce discomfort.
• Cleanliness lowers infection risk.

2. Bartholin cyst medical treatment

When a Bartholin cyst becomes infected or painful, medical treatment may include antibiotics, drainage or a small tube to keep the duct open.

• Antibiotics may be given if the cyst is infected or caused by an STI.
• The cyst can be drained through a minor procedure.
• A small tube called a Word catheter may be inserted to allow proper drainage.

3. Surgical options

For large, recurrent, or severely infected Bartholin cysts, surgical treatment may be needed to drain the cyst or remove the gland and prevent future problems.

• Marsupialization opens and stitches the cyst to prevent fluid buildup.Sometimes, the Bartholin gland is completely removed.

Each treatment has benefits and risks. Your doctor will suggest the most appropriate approach based on your health condition.

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Prevention and Care

• While Bartholin cysts cannot always be prevented, certain steps may reduce the risk:
• Practice good genital hygiene, including regular washing with mild, unscented soap.
• Use protection during sexual activity to reduce the risk of STIs.
• Treat vaginal infections promptly to prevent duct obstruction.
• Monitor for early signs of swelling, discomfort or pain and seek care early.
• Early detection and hygiene can help minimize recurrence and complications.