If the cyst grows, you might feel a lump or mass near your vaginal opening. Although a cyst is usually painless, it can be tender. A full-blown infection of a Bartholin's cyst can occur in a matter of days. If the cyst becomes infected, you may experience:.
Call your doctor if you have a painful lump near the opening of your vagina that doesn't improve after two or three days of self-care — for instance, soaking the area in warm water sitz bath. If the pain is severe, make an appointment with your doctor right away. Also call your doctor promptly if you find a new lump near your vaginal opening and you're older than Although rare, such a lump may be a sign of a more serious problem, such as cancer.
Experts believe that the cause of a Bartholin's cyst is a backup of fluid. Fluid may accumulate when the opening of the gland duct becomes obstructed, perhaps caused by infection or injury.
A Bartholin's cyst can become infected, forming an abscess. A number of bacteria may cause the infection, including Escherichia coli E. There's no way to prevent a Bartholin's cyst. However, safer sex practices — in particular, using condoms — and good hygiene habits may help to prevent infection of a cyst and the formation of an abscess. If cancer is a concern, your doctor may refer you to a gynecologist who specializes in cancers of the female reproductive system.
A visit with your doctor may include:. If the cyst has become infected and painful, your doctor will most likely prescribe antibiotics for cysts, which can kill the bacteria that caused the infection. This may be a good option if the infection is a result of a sexually transmitted infection. Antibiotics may also be necessary if the infection spreads to the surrounding skin and genital area.
Although the bartholin cyst removal is uncommon, your doctor may recommend it to prevent any further complications to the area. If the cyst is large and symptomatic, your doctor can make a small cut to the area to allow the fluid to drain. If the cyst is recurring, your doctor can insert a small tube into the cyst and leave it in place temporarily to encourage the cyst to drain and prevent the glands from becoming blocked.
Once the cyst is drained, you may see immediate relief. However, pain from the incision can last a few days. Speak to your doctor about the best pain management methods. Your doctor can also perform a surgical procedure called Marsupialization.
This process is brief, typically only 30 minutes to an hour, and you will be able to go home the same day. Rarely, for persistent cysts that aren't effectively treated by the above procedures, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the Bartholin's gland. Surgical removal is usually done in a hospital under general anesthesia. Surgical removal of the gland carries a greater risk of bleeding or complications after the procedure.
Daily soaking in warm water, several times a day, may be adequate to resolve an infected Bartholin's cyst or abscess. After a surgical procedure to treat an infected cyst or abscess, soaking in warm water is particularly important.
Sitz baths help to keep the area clean, ease discomfort and promote effective drainage of the cyst. Pain relievers also may be helpful.
Your first appointment will likely be with either your primary care provider or a doctor who specializes in conditions that affect women gynecologist. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Diagnosis To diagnose a Bartholin's cyst, your doctor may: Ask questions about your medical history Perform a pelvic exam Take a sample of secretions from your vagina or cervix to test for a sexually transmitted infection Recommend a test of the mass biopsy to check for cancerous cells if you're postmenopausal or over
0コメント