bartholins cyst

Question 1

What are Bartholin glands?

Answer 1

Bartholin glands are 2 pea-shaped glands which lie at the entrance of the vagina and secrete fluid that keeps the external genital area moist.

Question 2

What is a Bartholin’s cyst?

Answer 2

A Bartholin’s cyst occurs when the duct becomes blocked, may feel small painless lump in vagina, dry vagina.

Question 3

What can happen if a Bartholin’s cyst becomes infected?

Answer 3

If the duct remains blocked it can become infected and create an abscess in the gland which will become swollen, red, and painful. You may notice smelly discharge and pus leaking from the area.

Question 4

What are the risk factors for a Bartholin’s cyst?

Answer 4

Risk factors include being nulliparous, having low parity, STIs, local infections (e.g., E. coli), and local damage causing duct blockage.

Question 5

What are some differential diagnoses for a Bartholin’s cyst?

Answer 5

Differential diagnoses include carcinoma of the vulva (especially if over 40), infected sebaceous cyst, lipomata, and STIs.

Question 6

What investigations and examinations are done for a Bartholin’s cyst?

Answer 6

Investigations include swabs and biopsy if malignancy is suspected.

Question 7

What is the conservative management for a Bartholin’s cyst?

Answer 7

Conservative management includes warm baths if the cyst is small and not causing problems.

Question 8

What is marsupialisation in the context of Bartholin’s cyst treatment?

Answer 8

Marsupialisation involves opening the cyst under general anesthesia to allow drainage of the abscess, which should shrink in 7-14 days.

Question 9

What are the risks associated with marsupialisation?

Answer 9

Risks of marsupialisation include bleeding, infection, pain, abscess returning, and no sex until the wound has healed (approximately 2 weeks).

Question 10

What is balloon catheter insertion for Bartholin’s cyst treatment?

Answer 10

Balloon catheter insertion involves inserting a catheter into the cyst and keeping it for 2-6 weeks to allow new duct formation.

Question 11

What are the risks associated with balloon catheter insertion?

Answer 11

Risks of balloon catheter insertion include bleeding, infection, pain during the procedure, pain during sex, swelling of the labia, and scarring.