What Is A Bartholin’s Duct Cyst and How Can It Be Treated?

Everyone’s gynaecological needs often change as they age, which typically means that certain vulval diseases are more common at varying ages and stages of life than others.

A good example of this is Bartholin’s cysts, a lump or swelling affecting the lips of the vagina that can cause one side to look bigger than the other.

This is caused by an infection of Bartholin’s glands, two tiny glands found behind and at either side of the vaginal entrance. These glands typically secrete fluid which acts as a natural lubricant during sex.

They can sometimes become blocked, which causes them to fill with fluid and form a node or cyst. The causes of it are not always clear, but it can be caused as a result of infections, both sexually transmitted or bacterial.

They are most common amongst women aged between 20 and 30 who are sexually active, as before puberty Batholin’s glands do not function and after the menopause, they start to work less.

However, whilst STIs have been linked to Bartholin’s cysts, they are not necessarily either a symptom or always caused by them, so whilst safe sex practices can help, this type of cyst is not a sign of an infection. However, any unusual lump should be checked by a doctor to rule out another condition.

If you do not notice them, then they are unlikely to need any treatment, and even mildly painful cysts can be self-treated using over-the-counter painkillers, but if the pain does not go away or there is some significant swelling, then a gynaecologist can help treat it.

The typical treatment is either a course of antibiotics to reduce the abscess, or a minor incision is made to drain out all of the pus, with a new opening made to help fluid drain out easier and prevent blockages in the future.