Definition

A Bartholin gland cyst is a fluid sac in the vagina entrance. If it becomes infected, it is called an abscess.

Causes

Bartholin glands make fluid that keeps the vagina moist. The glands can become blocked and cause a backup of fluid. This fluid creates the cyst.

Bacteria or viruses can get into the trapped fluid. They can grow and cause an infection.

Risk Factors

Things that raise the risk of Bartholin gland cyst are:

• Infection
• Injury or surgery in the area
• Never having a pregnancy—or having a first pregnancy
• Sexually transmitted infections

Symptoms

Bartholin gland cysts do not always cause symptoms. Those that do may cause:

• A painless or tender lump on either side of the vagina opening
• A lump that may grow
• Pain and pressure with activities, such as walking or sex

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis may be based on the exam.

The doctor may need to rule out other conditions. This may include testing fluids or tissue from the cyst. Sometimes imaging is done to look at the cyst.

Treatment

Small cysts without symptoms may not need treatment. Cysts that are causing problems may be treated at home with:

• Sitz bath—sitting in a warm water bath to soften the cyst and help it drain
• Medicine to ease pain

Procedures can help drain cysts that are large or cause problems. Options are:

• Catheterization—A tube is put into the cyst to drain the fluid.
• Marsupialization—An incision is made in the cyst and stitched open—to drain fluids.
• Gland removal—less common.

Antibiotics may be needed if there is an infection caused by bacteria.

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent a Bartholin gland cyst.