Bartholin Cyst: Meaning, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Bartholin cyst refers to the condition in which a fluid-filled cyst is developed in the women’s genital region. A female vaginal opening contains two Bartholin glands on either side of the labia. These glands produce secretions for the lubrication of the vaginal opening. Bartholin's gland can develop fluid-filled cysts, which, on getting infected, cause severe pain and discomfort to the person. The most effective treatment for Bartholin's cyst is surgical drainage.
WHAT IS BARTHOLIN CYST?
Bartholin cyst is a gynaecological problem in women in which a pimple-like lump is developed on the labia minora of the vaginal opening. This lump is filled with fluidic secretions of the Bartholin gland and may often get infected with bacterial organisms. The cyst enlarges and blocks the Bartholin gland, as a result of which fluidic secretions are affected.
Treatment for a Bartholin cyst depends on the size of the cyst and whether it is infected. Small cysts that are not causing any symptoms may not require treatment. However, larger cysts or abscesses may need to be drained or surgically removed. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to treat any infection.
Types of Bartholin cyst
Bartholin duct cyst
This type of cyst block the duct of Bartholin's gland and hinders the lubrication of vaginal opening.
1
Bartholin gland cyst
This cyst formed on the Bartholin gland get enlarged and blocks the gland, inhibiting its functioning.
2
CAUSES
- Blockage of ducts
- Bacterial infections
- STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)
HOW IS IT FORMED?
Bartholin cyst is formed as a result of blockage of ducts responsible for passing fluids secreted by the bartholin's gland into the vagina. The ducts get filled with the fluid and expand resulting in the formation of cysts.
The blocking of ducts prevent proper drainage of fluid produced by the glands. This leads to formation of cyst of variable sizes that may cause discomfort or pain during activities like sitting, walking, or sexual intercourse.
The exact cause of the blockage is not always known, but some common factors that can contribute to the development of a Bartholin cyst include:
- Bacterial infection
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Trauma
- Hormonal changes
SYMPTOMS
- Painless lump
- Pain near the vaginal opening while walking
- Pain while having sexual intercourse
- Pus formed in a cyst that is painful
DIAGNOSIS
Physical examination- The occurrence of a Bartholin cyst is generally observed on a physical examination of the vagina or in routine tests of the genitals. It can be easily diagnosed by observing through the naked eye, so no particular test is needed for further examination to confirm that it is Bartholin's cyst. However, to confirm that the cyst is not infected or cancerous following tests are recommended after diagnosing Bartholin's cyst.
Biopsy of the cyst- the mass of the sample is tested for cancerous cells.
Microbial examination: Samples of cyst tissues are examined for the presence of any bacterial or fungal infection or any sexually transmitted disease.
DO's
Keep the genital area clean Dry the area to avoid any infection in the cyst.Take a sitz bathDONT's
Do not ignore the cyst or pimple on vaginaDo not hesitate in discussing your health issues.Avoid forceful sexual activityTREATMENTS
NON SURGICAL TREATMENTS
Bartholin's cyst can be treated through various methods, including medications and surgeries. Some of the most common treatment options to get relief from the symptoms of Bartholin's cyst and completely remove the cyst:
- Antibiotics- For infected cysts or sexually transmitted infection
- Sitz baths- Sitting in a bathtub with warm water at least thrice a day.
SURGICAL TREATMENTS
- Surgical drainage- It is the surgical procedure to drain down Bartholin's cyst by putting small incisions on the cyst to completely drain out the fluid. With the help of a catheter, a rubber tube inserted along with the incision to maintain the cyst in an open state so that the fluid inside can completely drain out in six months.
- Marsupialization- It is an invasive surgery in which the doctor makes cuts on the two sides of cyst to drain the fluid out and stitches the side skin from the sideways to maintain it in open state, for a regular drainage and to prevent blockage and other infections.
Risk and Complications
- Bacterial infections
- Blocking of Bartholy’s duct
- Blocking of Bartholy’s gland
- Prone to get a sexually transmitted disease
- Painful during sexual intercourse
IF LEFT UNTREATED
Do not ignore the cyst, a proper treatment is necessary to avoid further exaggeration of the cyst and other complications arising due to cyst enlargement, some of the complications include:
- Blocking of Bartholin's gland
- Pain during sexual intercourse
COST
The cost of cyst removal ranges between ₹13,000 to ₹16,000 . The cost varies from the type of treatment, severity of condition, and hospital facility in which the treatment is taken.
The treatment cost for removing the bartholin cyst will also be variable for the patients who have health insurance and the ones who do not have any insurance.
Financial Options
INSURANCE COVERAGE
The cost of surgical treatment for bartholin cyst is covered under health insurance. Most of the time, the insurer will cover a particular amount for the surgery. However, the amount of coverage depends on the type of policy. It is essential to know that treatments other than surgical treatments will not be covered under the health insurance.
Know more about Bartholin Cyst
Bartholin cysts are relatively common and can develop for a variety of reasons, including infection, trauma, or a blockage in the gland's duct. The cyst may start small and painless, but it can grow larger and become more uncomfortable over time. Treatment for Bartholin cysts depends on the size and severity of the cyst, as well as any associated symptoms.
Home remedies may help relieve symptoms of a Bartholin cyst, such as sitting in a warm bath or applying warm compresses to the area. Avoiding sexual activity while the cyst is present may also help prevent further irritation and discomfort.
Prevention of Bartholin cysts involves maintaining good genital hygiene, avoiding the use of irritating products or chemicals in the genital area, and using protection during sexual activity to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a Bartholin cyst, as untreated cysts can lead to complications such as abscesses and other infections. With prompt and appropriate treatment, most Bartholin cysts can be successfully managed and the risk of complications minimized.
Glamyo Health provides the best and safest options for treatment of bartholin cyst, the cyst removal provided by Glamyo Health, is one of the most advanced innovations for the improved treatment. Know the best Doctors and clinics for your treatment.
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