Sexual Health - Bartholin's Cyst

Question 1

What are Bartholin’s glands?

Answer 1

Pair of glands either side of the posterior vaginal introitus

Usually pea-sized and not palpable

Produce mucus to help with lubrication

Question 2

What causes a Bartholin’s cyst?

Answer 2

When the ducts become blocked, Bartholin’s glands swell and become tender

Typically unilateral between 1-4cm

Question 3

What happens if a Bartholin’s cyst becomes infected?

Answer 3

Bartholin’s Abscess

Hot, tender, red and potentially draining pus

Question 4

How are Bartholin’s cysts diagnosed?

Answer 4

Clinical diagnosis

History and examination

Question 5

How are Bartholin’s cysts managed?

Answer 5

Usually self-resolve with :
- Good hygiene
- Analgesia
- Warm compresses

Question 6

Why is incision generally avoided in Bartholin’s cysts?

Answer 6

Cyst will reoccur

Question 7

When is a biopsy done with Bartholin’s cysts?

Answer 7

If vulval malignancy needs to be excluded

Women over 40

Question 8

How are Bartholin’s abscesses managed?

Answer 8

Antibiotics

Swab of pus or fluid cultured

E.coli is the most common cause
Swabs for chlamydia and gonorrhoea are also done

Question 9

What surgical interventions are used for a Bartholin’s abscess?

Answer 9

Word catheter
- Abscess is drained and small balloon inflated to prevent reoccurrence

Marsupialisation
- Abscess drained, sides are sutured open to allow continuous drainage of the area and prevent recurrence