What is a Bartholin’s cyst and how is it treated?

From time to time, we all experience lumps and bumps around our genitals. And because it’s so common, it’s hard to know when to go to the doctor and when all is well.

As a general rule of thumb, whenever something appears and starts bothering us around the genitals, it’s a good idea to consult a medical professional to rule out anything serious. A lump near the opening of the vagina may be a Bartholin’s cyst. This is a lesser known type of cyst that affects people with vaginas.

That’s a strange name. It is named after a Danish physician who identified Bartholin’s glands (where cysts occur) in the 17th century. It’s hard to spell, but with the help of an obstetrician-gynecologist and general practitioner, you can learn what Bartholin’s cysts are, where they are, how they are caused, the signs and symptoms, and if you experience them. I will explain how to deal with this.

What is a Bartholin’s cyst?

Simply put, a Bartholin’s cyst is a fluid-filled swelling in one of the Bartholin’s glands on either side of the vaginal opening on the lips of the labia minora. These glands protect the vaginal tissue during intercourse. Produces a vaginal lubricating fluid that helps to

Obstetrician-gynecologist and founder of a condom company hanks Sarah Welsh explains to Mashable that a Bartholin’s cyst is “a small fluid-filled sac in the Bartholin’s gland, just inside the opening of the vagina.” Vagina during sex. “If that gland becomes clogged, it can cause a cyst,” she explains.

“If this cyst becomes infected (pus collects inside), an abscess may develop, making the area red, tender, or swollen,” she adds.

Dr. Deborah Lee Dr Fox Online Pharmacy explains, “The Bartholin’s glands are located in the genital area. They are located at the 4 and 8 o’clock positions on either side of the vagina if you are looking directly at the vaginal opening in front of you. Vaginal opening.”

She explains that a Bartholin’s cyst develops when the duct of the Bartholin’s gland becomes blocked, so it can’t drain naturally, and fluid builds up in it. “Usually, the glands are unremarkable and only become apparent when they fill with fluid and form cysts. These usually occur on one or the other side only.”

Bartholin’s cysts are not particularly common.they explain 2 Percentage of obstetrics and gynecology referrals each year. It increases after puberty and decreases after menopause. but, 6 It has been reported in young girls who have not yet reached puberty. Basically, regardless of age, it’s always worth paying attention.

one study Bartholin’s cysts (and abscesses that can develop from Bartholin’s cysts) are more common in pregnant women, especially if they’ve had a Bartholin’s cyst or abscess in the past. won’t fertility Jeez.

Is Bartholin’s cyst a sexually transmitted disease?

A Bartholin’s cyst is not a sexually transmitted disease, it’s simply a cyst and can be caused by a variety of factors and can even occur randomly. It can become infected and develop into a serious abscess.

STDs only Rarely Because they cause Bartholin’s abscess, testing for STDs is not routine, especially to avoid them. to). By doing so, you can become aware of your condition and make informed choices about your sexual and reproductive health.

What are the symptoms of Bartholin’s cyst?

Bartholin’s glands produce a fluid that helps lubricate the vagina during intercourse. Therefore, Lee explains, cysts can be uncomfortable and compress surrounding structures. This can result in:

• painful sex.

• Distressing symptoms when urinating.

• Discomfort when sitting, standing or walking.

• The gland is leaking fluid and may be stained with blood.

• Discomfort when wiping around the genitals, such as after urinating.

Because the glands are part of the genitals, they are at risk of secondary infection from sexually transmitted diseases and bacterial infections.

Lee says: This type of cross-contamination between the anal area and the vagina, vulva and surrounding areas is relatively common.

“When infected, they fill with pus and form Bartholin’s abscesses. Bartholin’s cysts can be infected with sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea and chlamydia,” warns Lee.

What are the signs of Bartholin’s cyst to look out for?

If you have a Bartholin’s cyst, you may feel a lump just inside your vaginal opening. “You may see swelling or bulging on one side of the vagina that doesn’t look symmetrical,” Lee says. “Insert two fingers into the vagina, feeling downward and backward, and release to one side – either left or right, as usual. [exactly side by side]If infected, you will likely feel hot and the skin overlying it at the vaginal opening will turn red and appear angry.

“If the cyst is small and doesn’t cause any symptoms, it can be left alone. If there is discomfort or pain in this area and you find a tender lump like the one above, this is an infected bartholin. It could be a cyst and you should see your GP,” she says.

“However, if you have a lump in your genital area, it is highly recommended that you see your GP for a proper examination.” It’s always worth it to rule out more serious consequences.

“If you have symptoms such as high fever, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting or lethargy, this is an emergency,” she emphasizes. must be obtained.”

What to do if you think you have a Bartholin’s cyst

Even if you don’t have any symptoms, you should make an appointment and have everything checked to make sure you’re healthy and there isn’t another underlying cause behind the lump or bump.

Note, however, that an asymptomatic Bartholin’s cyst is usually nothing to be alarmed about and can probably be left on its own without treatment.

“If you have a localized symptom, such as a painful soft cyst, see your doctor right away,” says Dr. Lee. Do not attempt to rupture the cyst yourself at home.”

How can a Bartholin’s cyst be treated?

There are two main treatments for Bartholin’s abscess. According to research.

An incision is made to drain (cut open) the abscess, and a flexible tube called a Ward catheter is inserted into the abscess cavity and left to drain for 4 weeks. This will reseal the abscess and prevent it from recurring.

This is a gynecological procedure in which an abscess is incised and the marginal flap is put back and sutured to prevent the abscess from resealing again.

In both scenarios, antibiotics are also administered, including antibiotics that prevent methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Pus from the abscess is sent for culture and antibiotic susceptibility.

“Unfortunately, it can be difficult to treat and can recur,” she warns. “The last resort is to completely remove the Bartholin gland. A biopsy may be required to rule out other very rare causes that may include it.”

How to prevent Bartholin’s cyst

Although the cause of Bartholin’s cysts may be unknown and may occur randomly, there are some things you can do to prevent them from forming. It may be associated with sexually transmitted diseases and infections such as E. coli. The latter is usually spread by transferring bacteria from the buttocks to the genitals. It is often spread by improperly wiping or mixing anal and vaginal intercourse without proper cleaning.

“Therefore, the best way to avoid Bartholin’s cysts and abscesses is to protect yourself from infections. It includes flushing out the bacteria from the skin and ensuring good vulvar hygiene,” says Welsh. Mashable.

“Remember to have good vulvar and vaginal hygiene. No means dashing or wash with scented productsbecause this can have detrimental effects on you vaginal microbiome As a result, they are more susceptible to infections. In fact, washing the exterior with mild soap and water is sufficient. “

Bartholin’s cysts and abscesses are very common, and it’s unclear exactly why they occur. “Don’t blame yourself for it. They don’t reflect poor hygiene or poor sex practices, and most cases just pop up for no reason,” she says. .

Never let shame or embarrassment prevent you from seeking medical help when it comes to sexual health issues. Your health is important. If you feel any lumps or bumps or experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor.