Medicines for Bartholin's cyst

What it is

A Bartholin's cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that develops near the opening of the vagina. It forms when one of the two Bartholin's glands — small glands on either side of the vaginal opening that produce fluid to lubricate the area — becomes blocked, so fluid builds up behind the blockage. A small cyst may cause no symptoms and be noticed only as a painless lump. A larger cyst can cause discomfort, especially when sitting, walking or during sex. If the cyst becomes infected, it can form a Bartholin's abscess — a painful, red, hot, swollen lump that can develop quickly and make the area very tender, sometimes with fever. Bartholin's cysts are common, particularly in women of reproductive age, and are usually not serious. It is diagnosed by examination.

How it is treated

A small, painless Bartholin's cyst often needs no treatment and may settle on its own; warm baths (sitz baths) can encourage a small cyst to drain and ease discomfort. A larger, uncomfortable cyst, or one that becomes an abscess, usually needs treatment. For an abscess or a troublesome cyst, the fluid or pus is drained — often by a minor procedure, sometimes placing a small drainage device (a Word catheter) or creating a permanent small opening (marsupialisation) to reduce the chance of it coming back, as simple drainage alone can allow it to recur. Antibiotics are used if there is significant infection. Most women recover well. Because a lump in this area occasionally has other causes, particularly in older women, a persistent or unusual lump is assessed. The reassuring message is that Bartholin's cysts are common and usually not serious, and effective treatment is available if needed.