Bartholin's Cysts

Question 1

What are and where are Bartholin’s glands?

Answer 1

Pair of glands located either side of the posterior part of the vaginal introitus.

They are usually pea-sized and not palpable. They produce mucus to help with vaginal lubrication.

Question 2

Describe a Bartholin’s cyst.

Answer 2

The swelling is typically unilateral and forms a fluid-filled cyst between 1 – 4 cm.

Question 3

What is a Bartholin’s abscess?

Answer 3

Infected Bartholin’s cyst

Question 4

How are Bartholin’s cysts managed?

Answer 4

Usually resolve with good hygiene, analgesia and warm compresses.

Question 5

Particularly in women over 40, what might be required?

Answer 5

Biopsy to rule out vulval malignancy.

Question 6

What is the most common causative organism of a Bartholin’s abscess?

Answer 6

E. coli is most common but send specific swabs for chlamydia and gonorrhoea.

Question 7

What are the two management options for Bartholin’s abscesses?

Answer 7

1. Word catheter (Bartholin’s gland balloon) – requires local anaesthetic
2. Marsupialisation – requires general anaesthetic