A growth in the vaginal area always makes women anxious. One example is Bartholin’s cyst. This cyst forms when there is a blockage in the Bartholin’s gland duct. The cyst can be small and painless, but it can also be the opposite.
The Bartholin’s gland itself is located on both sides of the vaginal lips. This gland secretes fluid that acts as lubrication during sexual intercourse. The gland is difficult to detect by touch or sight due to its very small size.
It’s important to understand that all women of all ages are at risk of developing Bartholin’s cysts. However, women aged 20-29 usually have a higher risk.
So, what are the symptoms of this condition? Can this type of cyst really cause lumps in the vagina?
Recognizing the Symptoms
This type of cyst can cause different symptoms in each woman. However, there are at least several common symptoms, such as:
- Uninfected Bartholin’s cysts appear as painless lumps that feel soft to the touch. These cysts are usually found accidentally, for example during routine pelvic examinations.
- The size of the cyst can increase within a few hours or days if it becomes infected. In addition to causing swelling, this infection can produce pus (abscess) and cause pain.
- Symptoms may also be accompanied by fever.
Due to Blocked Ducts
Basically, the fluid secreted by the Bartholin’s gland flows directly into the vagina. However, if the duct is blocked, the situation changes. A blocked duct will collect excess fluid, which then develops into a cyst.
For those planning to engage in sexual intercourse when experiencing these conditions, caution is advised. This is because the cyst can grow larger after sexual intercourse due to the additional fluid produced by the Bartholin’s gland during sexual activity.
Blocked glands can be caused by various factors. For example, bacterial infections, inflammation, or long-term irritation. Additionally, infections of this type of cyst can also be caused by bacteria that cause sexually transmitted infections. For example, Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria that cause Chlamydia.
Moreover, factors such as pregnancy, diabetes, and having a sexually transmitted infection can increase the likelihood of developing this cyst.
Treatment Methods
Generally, this cyst does not require special treatment, especially if it does not cause any symptoms. However, if the cyst is bothersome, there are several treatment options available:
• Warm Water Soaks
Soaking in warm water several times a day for 3-4 days can help small cysts to rupture and drain naturally.
• Surgical Drainage
If the cyst is infected or very large, surgical drainage may be necessary. This drainage can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation. During this procedure, the doctor makes a small incision so that the fluid can drain out. A small catheter is then placed in the incision and left there for approximately 6 weeks to ensure complete drainage.
• Antibiotics
For infected cysts, antibiotics are needed to kill bacteria, especially if the cyst is proven to be infected by pathogens that cause sexually transmitted diseases. However, if the abscess has been completely drained, doctors often do not need to prescribe antibiotics.
• Marsupialization
If the cyst recurs and is very bothersome, marsupialization can be performed, where the doctor places stitches on each side of the incision to create a permanent outlet less than 6 millimeters in size. A small catheter can be placed to assist with drainage for several days after the procedure. This procedure can help reduce recurrence of Bartholin’s cysts.
