Bartholin cyst
Published April 15, 2024 | 
( 1998 )
What can you tell me about a Bartholin cyst? We are looking for medical information.
Bartholin’s glands are located on each side of the vaginal opening. They secrete substances that lubricate the vagina. If the duct that drains these secretions becomes obstructed from an infection or other causes, the gland fills with fluid and enlarges as a cyst. It appears as a painless lump to one side of the vaginal opening.
A Bartholin cyst may become acutely infected and lead to the formation of an abscess. An abscess is painful and may also show external signs of infection such as localized redness, warmth and tenderness in the vulva near the vaginal opening. Treatment with antibiotics may clear the infection, but the cyst may remain. Bartholin cysts that persist and cause symptoms may warrant surgical excision.