A Bartholin’s cyst develops when the duct exiting the Bartholin’s gland becomes blocked. The fluid produced by the gland then accumulates, causing the gland to swell and form a cyst. An abscess occurs when a cyst becomes infected. Bartholin’s abscesses can be caused by any of a number of bacteria.

If the cyst becomes infected, you may experience: A tender, painful lump near the vaginal opening. Discomfort while walking or sitting. Pain during intercourse.

Bartholin’s Cyst Treatment. If your exam shows that you have an STI, or if your cyst is infected, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic. They may also prescribe topical medications to put on your skin. If you’re under 40 and your cyst isn’t causing problems, you probably won’t need treatment.

The catheter may cause minor discomfort but should not be painful. But avoid sex, tampons and swimming with the catheter in place. Possible problems include pain if the balloon is too full, this can be relieved by removing some of the fluid.

Smooth muscle neoplasms of the vulva can be mistaken for Bartholin duct cysts, which can lead to a delay in diagnosis. We present a case of vulvar leiomyoma and a case of leiomyosarcoma that clinically mimicked Bartholin duct cysts.

Given time, an untreated cyst can become infected, leading to an accumulation of pus. This condition, a Bartholin abscess, can cause women great pain and requires treatment to eliminate the infection. If you suspect you suffer from a Bartholin cyst or abscess, it is important to seek medical guidance.

Anatomy — The Bartholin glands (also called the greater vestibular glands ( figure 2 )) are the female homologue of the bulbourethral glands in the male. The Bartholin gland’s main function is to secrete mucus to provide vaginal and vulvar lubrication [ 2 ].

Adenocarcinoma of Bartholin’s Gland. Since patients with adenocarcinoma of Bartholin’s gland may require radical surgery, referral to a gynecologist or gynecologic oncologist familiar with the treatment of this carcinoma may be prudent in older patients with Bartholin gland cysts or abscesses.

Cysts have different sizes. They can be as small as a lentil and as big as a golf ball. Causes of Bartholin cyst Research shows that the course of the Bartholin cysts is an accumulation of lubrication fluid.

Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic if there are signs of infection. If no other methods work, the Bartholin’s gland can be surgically removed. This surgery is usually done under general anesthesia and may require a few days in the hospital. What’s the outlook? Following the procedure, you should be back to normal activities within a few weeks.