Bartholin's Cyst - Symptom, Treatment and cause of Bartholin's Cyst

Bartholin's Cyst Description

Infection of the Bartholin's glands, which are mucus-secreting glands that open through small ducts onto the inside lips of a woman's vulva. They produce mucus to keep the female genitals moist, and secrete extra fluid to act as a lubricant during sexual intercourse.

Bartholin's Cyst Cause

Gland duct becomes blocked by thick mucus, it swells up into a cyst, and becomes bacterially infected.

Bartholin's Cyst Symptom

Tender, painful lump in the vulva that makes sex very painful, and even sitting uncomfortable. Occasionally, the duct may block intermittently, causing the cyst to swell and then subside.

Investigation

None normally necessary, but sometimes a swab is taken to identify the responsible bacteria.

Bartholin's Cyst Treatment

Antibiotics by mouth to settle the infection, and surgery to drain away the pus and open up the cyst.

Complications

An abscess may form in the adjacent tissues.

Prognosis of Bartholin's Cyst

Good results from treatment. Persistent without treatment.