Bartholin Cyst
Alternate Names : Bartholin Duct Cyst, Bartholin Gland Cyst
The Bartholin glands are located on both sides of the vaginal opening. They secrete fluids that help lubricate the
vagina. If the glands are blocked for any reason, a round swelling called a cyst may develop.
What is going on in the body?
The Bartholin gland ducts drain the fluid made by the glands. These ducts may become blocked due to infection
or chronic inflammation. When a duct is blocked, the gland fills with fluid. This forms a cyst. The cyst can grow from very
small to the size of a golf ball. Occasionally, the cyst itself may become infected, and a pocket of pus, called an abscess, develops.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
The main causes of this condition include:
previous or current infection in the vagina
previous surgery or injury in the vaginal area
cancer, but this is rare and usually only occurs in women over age 40
In many cases, the cause is unknown. Several different bacteria may cause a Bartholin abscess.
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