What Causes a Bartholin's Cyst?

Women's health is one of A Life Health Group's top priorities. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide detailed information about Bartholin cysts, a common condition in women. You will find answers to questions such as what a Bartholin cyst is, what causes it, what its symptoms are, and how it is treated. A Life Health Group’s expert gynecology team supports your recovery by offering the latest medical advancements and personalized treatment approaches for Bartholin cyst treatment.

A Bartholin cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms when the Bartholin glands, located on either side of the vaginal opening, become blocked. These glands produce fluid that helps lubricate the vagina. When the duct of a gland becomes obstructed, fluid builds up and leads to the formation of a cyst. A Bartholin cyst is usually painless, but as it grows, it may cause discomfort and pain. If it becomes infected, it can lead to a painful condition known as a Bartholin abscess.

The exact causes of Bartholin cyst formation are not fully known. However, several factors that may lead to the blockage of the gland duct include:

• Infections: Sexually transmitted infections (such as gonorrhea and chlamydia) or vaginal infections can cause inflammation of the Bartholin glands and lead to duct blockage.
• Trauma: Blows to the vaginal area, childbirth, or surgical interventions can damage the Bartholin glands and cause duct obstruction.
• Narrowing of the gland duct: Congenital or acquired narrowing of the duct may lead to fluid buildup and cyst formation.
• Other factors: Poor hygiene, wearing tight clothing, and excessive sweating can also increase the risk of Bartholin cysts.

A Bartholin cyst is usually small and painless and does not cause any symptoms. However, as the cyst grows or becomes infected, the following symptoms may appear:

• Swelling at the vaginal opening: Swelling is usually felt on one side of the vaginal opening, in the labium majora region.
• Pain: As the cyst enlarges or becomes infected, it may cause pain. The pain may worsen when sitting, walking, or during sexual intercourse.
• Redness and tenderness: Redness, tenderness, and increased warmth may be present in the area of the cyst.
• Fever: When the cyst becomes infected, a rise in body temperature may occur.
• Pus discharge: In infected cysts, there may be a discharge of pus from the vagina.

The diagnosis of a Bartholin cyst is usually made through a physical examination. Your doctor can detect the cyst by examining the vaginal opening and surrounding area. In suspicious cases, the following tests may be performed:

• Pelvic ultrasound: May be used to evaluate the size and structure of the cyst.
• Culture of cyst fluid: A sample of the cyst fluid may be taken and cultured to determine the cause of infection.
• Biopsy: Rarely, if cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be performed.

The treatment of a Bartholin cyst varies depending on the size of the cyst, symptoms, and presence of infection. Treatment options include:

• Home treatment: For small and painless cysts, home care may be sufficient. Warm sitz baths can help the cyst drain on its own.
• Medication: Antibiotic therapy is used for infected cysts.
• Cyst drainage: If the cyst is large and painful, it can be drained under local anesthesia.
• Marsupialization: To prevent recurrence, the cyst wall is surgically opened and the edges are stitched to the vaginal wall. This keeps the cyst cavity open and allows continuous drainage.
• Cyst excision: Rarely, complete removal of the cyst may be necessary in recurrent cases.

To prevent Bartholin cyst, you can pay attention to the following recommendations:

• Good hygiene: Keep the vaginal area clean and dry.
• Safe sexual intercourse: Use condoms to protect against sexually transmitted infections.
• Comfortable clothing: Avoid wearing tight clothing.
• Regular gynecological examination: Have your gynecological check-ups regularly.

No, Bartholin cyst is generally benign and has a low risk of turning into cancer.

Small and painless Bartholin cysts may sometimes resolve on their own. However, if the cyst is large or painful, treatment may be necessary.

Yes, Bartholin cyst can recur. Surgical methods such as marsupialization can be applied to prevent recurrence of the cyst.

Bartholin cyst generally does not affect pregnancy. However, the cyst may become infected during delivery and may require treatment.

If the cyst is large and painful, it can cause discomfort during sexual intercourse.

A Life Health Group has a team of expert gynecologists and state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment units to provide you with the best service in Bartholin cyst treatment.

Advantages of A Life Health Group:

• Expert gynecology team: Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning are carried out by experienced and specialized gynecologists.

• Comprehensive diagnostic methods: Advanced diagnostic methods such as physical examination, pelvic ultrasound, and cyst fluid culture are used to thoroughly investigate the cause and condition of your Bartholin cyst.

• Personalized treatment plan: The most suitable treatment plan is created considering the size, symptoms, and infection status of your cyst.

• Advanced technology: The most effective results are achieved using state-of-the-art treatment methods such as medication, cyst drainage, marsupialization, and cyst excision.

• Modern and comfortable environment: You receive diagnostic and treatment services in a comfortable and reliable setting.

• Patient-centered approach: We are always by your side to support you during the treatment process and answer your questions.