Bartholin gland duct cyst

The term describes the same basic condition often shortened to Bartholin cyst. The gland continues producing lubricating fluid, but the obstructed duct prevents that fluid from reaching the vulval surface.

Bartholin ducts open near the lower part of the vaginal entrance. Irritation, inflammation, injury, or thickened secretions can obstruct an opening, although the precise trigger is not always apparent. Fluid then stretches the duct and forms a lump, commonly on one side.

An uninfected cyst may feel soft and cause pressure rather than sharp pain. If bacteria enter the trapped fluid, an abscess can form with marked tenderness, warmth, redness, and sometimes pus-like drainage or fever.

A small cyst causing minimal discomfort may be observed. Comfortable warm sitz baths, gentle washing, and loose clothing can ease friction. Avoid squeezing or puncturing it, since an improvised opening can injure the vulva and introduce infection.

A painful, persistent, or recurrent cyst needs examination. Depending on the findings, care can involve pain relief, treatment for infection when present, or drainage. Marsupialisation creates an opening intended to keep fluid flowing from the cyst cavity.

Arrange prompt care for rapidly increasing swelling, intense pain, fever, chills, spreading redness, foul-smelling fluid, difficulty walking or sitting, or feeling acutely unwell. Do not wait for a sitz bath to work when these warning signs appear.

A clinician should also evaluate an unexplained lump that remains, recurs, or feels solid or fixed. This becomes especially relevant when a vulval lump first appears at an older age, because assessment may be needed to exclude another diagnosis.

Ask how the examination distinguishes a duct cyst from other vulval lumps, whether there are signs of an abscess, and what would make drainage advisable. You may also want to discuss aftercare, recurrence, and whether tissue assessment is relevant to your age and findings.