[39] Bartholin's Cyst and Abscess Flashcards
What is a Bartholin’s cyst?
A fluid-filled sac within one of the Bartholin’s glands in the vagina
What % of gynaecological visits in the UK per yea rare due to Bartholin’s cysts and abscesses?
2%
In what % of women do asymptomatic Bartholin’s cysts occur?
Up to 3%
What are the Bartholin’s glands also known as?
Greater vestibular glands
Where are the Bartholin’s glands located?
Either side of the vaginal orifice, within the vestibule of the vagina (approx 4 and 8 o’clock positions), just below the hymenal ring
What is the function of Bartholin’s glands?
They secrete mucus to lubricate the vagina
What can cause the Bartholin’s gland to become blocked?
The build-up of mucus secretions
What can happen to the Bartholin’s cyst?
It can become infected, and if untreated develop into an abscess
What organisms infect the Bartholin’s cyst?
Usually anaerobic, including;
- E. Coli
- MRSA
- STIs
Who do Bartholin’s cysts most commonly occur in?
Nulliparous women of child-bearing ge
What are the risk factors for Bartholin’s cysts?
- Personal history of Bartholin’s cyst
- Sexually active
- History of vulval surgery
When are Bartholin’s cysts often asymptomatic?
If they are small
What symptoms can large Bartholin’s cysts cause?
- Vulvar pain
- Superficial dyspareunia
When in particular do Bartholin’s cysts cause vulvar pain?
When walking or sitting
Can Bartholin’s cysts undergo spontaneous rupture?
Yes
What is experienced when Bartholin’s cysts undergo spontaneous rupture?
Sudden relief of pain
How do Bartholin’s abscesses’ present?
- Acute onset of pain
- Difficulty passing urine
What will be found on examination in Bartholin’s cyst?
Unilateral labial mass, typically arising from posterior aspect of labia major