Bartholin's glands are structures located in the lateral walls of the vagina, responsible for producing fluid to facilitate its lubrication.
The ducts of these glands can become obstructed causing an accumulation of this fluid which leads to the formation of a Bartholin's cyst.
They cause few symptoms, mainly a lump in the genital area and mild discomfort when walking or with sexual intercourse.
They are diagnosed by clinical questioning and physical examination.
The treatment of cysts depends on their size and the amount of fluid they contain. Anti-inflammatory treatment and waiting for spontaneous resolution is usually sufficient. In cases where there is a large accumulation of fluid, surgical drainage may be necessary. If infected, antibiotics may be necessary.
- Illingworth B, Stocking K, Showell M, Kirk E, Duffy J. Evaluation of treatments for Bartholin's cyst or abscess: a systematic review. BJOG. 2020 May;127(6):671-678. doi: 10.1111/1471-0528.16079. Epub 2020 Feb 4. PMID: 31876985.
- Wechter ME, Wu JM, Marzano D, Haefner H. Management of Bartholin duct cysts and abscesses: a systematic review. Obstet Gynecol Surv. 2009 Jun;64(6):395-404. doi: 10.1097/OGX.0b013e31819f9c76. PMID: 19445813.
- Omole F, Kelsey RC, Phillips K, Cunningham K. Bartholin Duct Cyst and Gland Abscess: Office Management. Am Fam Physician. 2019 Jun 15;99(12):760-766. PMID: 31194482.
