Discover everything you need to know about Bartholin's gland cysts. Learn about the Causes, Symptoms, and treatment options available to manage this condition effectively.
Bartholin's gland cysts might not be something we talk about often, but they’re more common than you might think. In fact, approximately 2% of women will experience a Bartholin’s gland cyst at some point in their lives. As someone who believes in sharing knowledge, I want to make sure you're aware of what this condition is, how it develops, and the options you have to deal with it. It’s not something to be ashamed of—it’s a medical condition that can happen to anyone, and there’s a lot we can do to manage it.

What is a Bartholin's Gland Cyst?

At its core, a Bartholin's gland cyst is a fluid-filled lump that forms when one of the Bartholin's glands gets blocked. These small glands, located on either side of the vaginal opening, have a vital job: they secrete fluid that keeps the vulva moist. Under normal conditions, these glands are about the size of a pea. However, when the duct (the tiny passageway that drains fluid from the gland) becomes blocked, it can lead to the formation of a cyst.

What Causes a Bartholin's Gland Cyst?

In many cases, the cause is unclear. It could be triggered by something as simple as injury, infection, or inflammation. Rarely, these cysts can be caused by cancer, but that’s usually only seen in women over the age of 40. Sometimes, bacteria from sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia can cause an infection, which might make the cyst turn into an abscess, making things much more painful.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Most Bartholin's gland cysts are painless and don’t cause problems. You might not even notice it until it grows large enough to be felt. If you do experience pain, it's likely because the cyst has become infected, turning into an abscess.
Non-infected cysts typically present as a painless lump on one side of the vulva. However, if the cyst becomes infected and forms an abscess, the Symptoms become more serious:
Pain during physical activity, sitting, or sexual intercourse
Increased swelling over a few days
Fever and chills
Drainage from the cyst after a few days
If you notice any of these Symptoms, especially the drainage, it's essential to seek medical attention right away.

How is a Bartholin's Gland Cyst Diagnosed?

A gynecologist can diagnose this condition during a pelvic exam. If the cyst appears to be infected, your doctor might take a sample of the drainage to check for bacteria. This helps determine the right treatment approach.
Treatment Options: What Can You Do About It?
The treatment for a Bartholin's gland cyst depends on the size of the cyst and whether it’s infected. If the cyst isn’t causing any pain or problems, your doctor might suggest simply watching it. In the meantime, you can try soaking in warm water (called a sitz bath) to help relieve any discomfort. Non-prescription pain medications may also help.
However, if the cyst becomes infected, treatment options include:
Antibiotics: These are prescribed to treat the infection, especially if it’s caused by bacteria.
Drainage: For an abscess, doctors may need to drain the fluid to relieve pressure and pain. Sometimes, a catheter or small drain is placed to allow the cyst to continue draining for a few weeks, reducing the chance of reoccurrence.
Surgical Options: If the cyst keeps coming back, procedures like marsupialization (creating a small permanent opening for drainage) or removal of the entire gland may be necessary.
If the cyst is caused by cancer, your doctor will recommend more specific treatment, often involving surgical removal.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If the cyst doesn’t go away on its own, or if it becomes infected, it's important to consult a healthcare professional. Don’t try to drain the cyst yourself—it can lead to further Complications. If you're pregnant and have a cyst, doctors will usually delay surgery until after delivery to avoid Complications, although antibiotics and local anesthesia are considered safe for treating infections.

Can You Prevent a Bartholin's Gland Cyst?

Unfortunately, there’s no guaranteed way to prevent a Bartholin’s gland cyst. However, practicing good hygiene and using protection during sexual activity can reduce your risk of infections. Always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to avoid introducing bacteria from the rectum to the vaginal area.

What’s the Outlook?

The good news is that with proper treatment, Bartholin’s gland cysts and abscesses are usually treatable. Most women recover within a few days to weeks, and those who undergo surgical procedures generally don’t experience recurrence.
While Bartholin’s gland cysts may sound intimidating, they’re a manageable condition with a range of treatment options. Don’t ignore Symptoms like pain, swelling, or drainage—seek medical advice early. Taking care of your health is always the best option.
If you’re unsure whether you have a Bartholin's gland cyst, or if you're experiencing any of the Symptoms mentioned above, consult with your gynecologist. They’re there to help and guide you through the process, ensuring your comfort and peace of mind.