A Bartholin’s Cyst is a small fluid-filled sac just inside the opening of the vagina. They develop when the Bartholin glands just behind, and either side, of the labia become blocked. The most effective way to identify a Bartholin’s Cyst is to attend regular gynaecological examinations and smear tests.
What is it caused by?
The Bartholin glands are responsible for secreting the lubricating fluid for sex, sending it down into the vagina. When blocked, they can fill with the fluid and expand to form a cyst. In some cases, it is linked to a sexually transmitted bacterial infection (STI e.g. Chlamydia or Gonorrhea), or other bacterial infections such as Escherichia Coli (E. Coli).
Consult a gynaecologist as soon as you notice swelling in the vaginal region, as failure to do so will result in the cyst becoming an abscess which is extremely painful.
What should I do if the cyst begins to change its appearance?
You must arrange an appointment with your gynaecologist immediately.
When the cyst becomes infected, you may notice that the area has become red, swollen, tender and unusually hot. It can also cause a high temperature. In most cases, a Bartholin’s Cyst will change into an abscess. It may be masking an underlying medical condition such as Vulva Cancer.
Treatments
If the cyst develops into an abscess, your gynaecologist may recommend the following treatments:
- Antibiotics to clear the infection. You may also then need to have the cyst drained, and surgical marsupialization carried out to avoid recurrence
- Needle aspiration, when the cyst is drained using a needle and syringe. This treatment is not recommended because the cyst will refill very quickly, and it can also introduce infection
- Balloon catheter insertion which drains the fluid from the abscess or cyst. It is usually carried out under a local anesthetic and patients can go home the same day
- Marsupialisation is highly recommended. This procedure is usually performed under a general anesthetic and you can usually go home the same day.
If you are concerned, please book an appointment with Queen’s Clinic by phoning us on 020 7935 5540.
