WHAT IS BARTHOLIN CYST?

Bartholin cyst is a gynaecological problem in women in which a pimple-like lump is developed on the labia minora of the vaginal opening. This lump is filled with fluidic secretions of the Bartholin gland and may often get infected with bacterial organisms. The cyst enlarges and blocks the Bartholin gland, as a result of which fluidic secretions are affected.

Treatment for a Bartholin cyst depends on the size of the cyst and whether it is infected. Small cysts that are not causing any symptoms may not require treatment. However, larger cysts or abscesses may need to be drained or surgically removed. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to treat any infection.

what is bartholin cyst

Types of Bartholin cyst

Bartholin duct cyst

This type of cyst block the duct of Bartholin's gland and hinders the lubrication of vaginal opening.

1
Bartholin gland cyst

This cyst formed on the Bartholin gland get enlarged and blocks the gland, inhibiting its functioning.

2

CAUSES

  • Blockage of ducts
  • Bacterial infections
  • STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)

HOW IS IT FORMED?

Bartholin cyst is formed as a result of blockage of ducts responsible for passing fluids secreted by the bartholin's gland into the vagina. The ducts get filled with the fluid and expand resulting in the formation of cysts.

The blocking of ducts prevent proper drainage of fluid produced by the glands. This leads to formation of cyst of variable sizes that may cause discomfort or pain during activities like sitting, walking, or sexual intercourse.

The exact cause of the blockage is not always known, but some common factors that can contribute to the development of a Bartholin cyst include:

  1. Bacterial infection
  2. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
  3. Trauma
  4. Hormonal changes



SYMPTOMS

  • Painless lump
  • Pain near the vaginal opening while walking
  • Pain while having sexual intercourse
  • Pus formed in a cyst that is painful
bartholin cyst symptoms

DIAGNOSIS

Physical examination- The occurrence of a Bartholin cyst is generally observed on a physical examination of the vagina or in routine tests of the genitals. It can be easily diagnosed by observing through the naked eye, so no particular test is needed for further examination to confirm that it is Bartholin's cyst. However, to confirm that the cyst is not infected or cancerous following tests are recommended after diagnosing Bartholin's cyst.

Biopsy of the cyst- the mass of the sample is tested for cancerous cells. 

Microbial examination: Samples of cyst tissues are examined for the presence of any bacterial or fungal infection or any sexually transmitted disease.

DO's
Keep the genital area clean
Dry the area to avoid any infection in the cyst.
Take a sitz bath
DONT's
Do not ignore the cyst or pimple on vagina
Do not hesitate in discussing your health issues.
Avoid forceful sexual activity

TREATMENTS

NON SURGICAL TREATMENTS

Bartholin's cyst can be treated through various methods, including medications and surgeries. Some of the most common treatment options to get relief from the symptoms of Bartholin's cyst and completely remove the cyst:

  • Antibiotics- For infected cysts or sexually transmitted infection
  • Sitz baths- Sitting in a bathtub with warm water at least thrice a day.

SURGICAL TREATMENTS

  • Surgical drainage- It is the surgical procedure to drain down Bartholin's cyst by putting small incisions on the cyst to completely drain out the fluid. With the help of a catheter, a rubber tube inserted along with the incision to maintain the cyst in an open state so that the fluid inside can completely drain out in six months.
  • Marsupialization- It is an invasive surgery in which the doctor makes cuts on the two sides of cyst to drain the fluid out and stitches the side skin from the sideways to maintain it in open state, for a regular drainage and to prevent blockage and other infections.

Risk and Complications

  1. Bacterial infections
  2. Blocking of Bartholy’s duct
  3. Blocking of Bartholy’s gland
  4. Prone to get a sexually transmitted disease
  5. Painful during sexual intercourse
bartholin cyst risks and complications

IF LEFT UNTREATED

Do not ignore the cyst, a proper treatment is necessary to avoid further exaggeration of the cyst and other complications arising due to cyst enlargement, some of the complications include:

  • Blocking of Bartholin's gland
  • Pain during sexual intercourse

COST

The cost of cyst removal ranges between ₹13,000  to ₹16,000 . The cost varies from the type of treatment, severity of condition, and hospital facility in which the treatment is taken. 

The treatment cost for removing the bartholin cyst will also be variable for the patients who have health insurance and the ones who do not have any insurance.

Financial Options

No Cost EMI

Cashless
(Insurance)

Reimbursement
(Insurance)

bartholin cyst treatment cost

INSURANCE COVERAGE

The cost of surgical treatment for bartholin cyst is covered under health insurance.  Most of the time, the insurer will cover a particular amount for the surgery. However, the amount of coverage depends on the type of policy. It is essential to know that treatments other than surgical treatments will not be covered under the health insurance.

bartholin cyst treatment insurance plan

Know more about Bartholin Cyst

Bartholin cysts are relatively common and can develop for a variety of reasons, including infection, trauma, or a blockage in the gland's duct. The cyst may start small and painless, but it can grow larger and become more uncomfortable over time. Treatment for Bartholin cysts depends on the size and severity of the cyst, as well as any associated symptoms.

Home remedies may help relieve symptoms of a Bartholin cyst, such as sitting in a warm bath or applying warm compresses to the area. Avoiding sexual activity while the cyst is present may also help prevent further irritation and discomfort.

Prevention of Bartholin cysts involves maintaining good genital hygiene, avoiding the use of irritating products or chemicals in the genital area, and using protection during sexual activity to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a Bartholin cyst, as untreated cysts can lead to complications such as abscesses and other infections. With prompt and appropriate treatment, most Bartholin cysts can be successfully managed and the risk of complications minimized.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A blocked Bartholin gland duct is the most common cause of a Bartholin cyst.

Treatment options include draining the cyst, marsupialization, and surgical removal of the gland.

A Bartholin cyst may go away on its own, but medical treatment is usually necessary.

Complications may include infection, abscess formation, and recurrence of the cyst.

The duration of a Bartholin cyst can vary from a few days to several weeks.

While Bartholin cysts are not typically cancerous, they may require biopsy or other testing to rule out the possibility of cancer.

A Bartholin cyst is typically diagnosed through a physical exam. Your doctor may perform a pelvic exam to look for any swelling or tenderness near the vaginal opening.

A Bartholin cyst is usually painless and may not cause any symptoms at first. However, as it grows larger, you may feel a lump or swelling in the vaginal area.