How do I know if I have a
Bartholin gland cyst?
You may notice a round, painless or slightly tender bulge within
one of the vaginal lips, near the opening of the vagina. The cyst
may stay the same size or may slowly grow larger. Cysts that get
infected are usually tender. The doctor may want to culture the cyst
fluid to see if an antibiotic is needed.
How are Bartholin gland cysts treated?
The treatment depends on the size of the cyst, how painful it is,
if it’s infected and your age. In some cases the cyst can just be
watched over time to see if it grows. Other treatment options are
performed in the outpatient surgical setting and include removal of
the entire gland or marsupialization, which is making a small cut
into the cyst to drain out the fluid and placing stitches at the
edge to allow a small opening to form. You may have a light
discharge for a few weeks. Panty liners should be all you need to
use to take care of it. It is important to keep the area clean and
dry to help prevent infection.
How can I prevent Bartholin gland cysts?
Bartholin gland cysts hardly ever come back after treatment, but
if they do they can be treated again. If you get another Bartholin
cyst, tell the doctor right away so you can get early and effective
treatment. |