The Bartholin glands are structures in the side walls of the vagina that are responsible for producing a fluid that helps lubricate the vagina.
The ducts of these glands can become blocked, leading to an accumulation of this fluid and the development of a Bartholin's cyst.
They cause mild symptoms, mainly a lump in the genital area and mild discomfort when walking or during sexual intercourse.
Diagnosis is made by clinical interview and physical examination.
The treatment of cysts depends on their size and the amount of fluid they contain. It is usually sufficient to give anti-inflammatory treatment and wait for the cyst to resolve. In cases where a lot of fluid has accumulated, surgical drainage may be necessary. If there is infection, antibiotics may need to be given.
- 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.
