Inflammation of the Bartholin's glands, located on each side of the vaginal orifice.
It appears due to an obstruction of the glands due to fluid accumulation or secondary to an infection.
Its most common symptoms are inflammation, redness of the affected area, pain or fever.
The diagnosis will be established by clinical questioning and a gynecological examination. In addition, an analysis of the secreted fluid or even a biopsy can be performed to rule out an underlying Bartholin's gland tumour.
As for the treatment, it is based on the administration of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and analgesics. Occasionally, drainage is required and if it is chronic, the glands may be removed.
The use of very tight clothing and the continued use of lycra undergarments should be avoided, as well as maintaining proper intimate hygiene and taking precautions during sexual intercourse.
- Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection in adults and adolescents. Khalil G Ghanem, MD, PhD. Uptodate. Jun 15, 2018.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance, 2015. Atlanta, GA: US Department of Health and Human Services; October 2016.
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- Workowski KA, Bolan GA, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, 2015. MMWR Recomm Rep 2015; 64:1.
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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.
