Cyst Removal

Bartholin’s Cyst

 

What are Bartholin’s glands?
Bartholin’s glands are two round, pea-sized glands at the entrance of the vagina which lubricate the external skin and the tissues at the entrance.

Why do the Bartholin’s glands enlarge?
If the duct draining the Bartholin’s gland becomes blocked, the fluid produced in the gland will force it to swell. Blockage usually results from tissue irritation, inflammation, or injury.

How do I know if an infection develops?
If you feel pain while sitting or walking, an infection may have developed. The tissues at the entrance to the vagina may become swollen and bleed. However, the abscess may drain by itself after a few days, but you should probably see your doctor right away.

Do Bartholin’s cysts need to be treated?
They may not need treatment if they're painless. You'll probably be advised to take warm sitz baths to try to make the cyst disappear. Antibiotics may be required if you have an infection. Women over 40 may have the cysts removed because of cancer concerns.

What are the surgical treatments?
There are various options for surgical treatment of painful cysts.

1. Open the enlarged gland and drain it, but the swelling may come back later.
2. Remove the entire gland, but this is a complicated method with frequent bleeding complications.
3. Another choice is to open the gland and insert a special balloon for 4 to 6 weeks, creating a scar tract that prevents the gland duct from blocking again. Some women do not like this method, so an alternative is marsupialization. This is where the top of the gland is removed, and the skin edges are stitched to the walls of the gland. As this wound heals, the gland shrinks, and the duct is forced to remain open.

What complications can develop after this procedure?
Bleeding may develop. Localized infection may occur but rarely in the bloodstream. Scarring and chronic pain in the tissues are possibilities, but these are rare.