ABOUT THE DISEASE

The Bartholin`s gland is a tiny gland on each of the labia, near the opening of the vagina. They make a small amount of fluid that lubricates the vaginal lips. If the opening of these glands gets blocked, the fluid backs up. It causes a round swelling called a cyst. It may become infected to form an abscess.

SYMPTOMS

• • Round, painless or slightly tender bulge in one of the vaginal lips
• • If infected, cysts may become tender.
• • Pain during sexual intercourse
• • Fever

CAUSES

Cysts are mostly non infectious. But in some cases, they can be caused due to an infection, or they may become infected.

DIAGNOSIS

- Pelvic examination reveals an enlarged and tender Bartholin`s gland.

TREATMENT METHODS

- Soaking in warm water, 3-4 times a day provides temporary relief and causes the abscess to open and drain on its own.

- A minor surgical procedure, involving an incision and insertion of catheter into the cyst to drain the fluid, may be done. The catheter stays in place for 4 to 6 weeks, and is then removed.

- A surgical procedure called Marsupalization, where a small, permanent opening helps the gland to drain, is another option.

- In recurrent cases, Bartholin cyst excision, i.e removing the gland itself either surgically or through a laser may be advised.

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