What is a Bartholin cyst?
The Bartholin glands are two small glands located on either side of the opening of the vagina. The glands produce mucus that helps lubricate (moisten) the vagina. A Bartholin cyst occurs when a blockage happens in the openings of one of these glands, causing the mucus to build up and form a lump.
Bartholin cysts occur in about 3% of all women. Doctors typically diagnose them in women of reproductive age. The chance of developing a Bartholin cyst decreases after menopause.
What causes a Bartholin cyst?
Doctors do not know why some women are predisposed to getting Bartholin cysts. In rare cases, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) — including chlamydia and gonorrhea — can be related to cysts.
What are the symptoms of a Bartholin cyst?
Many Bartholin cysts are small and do not cause symptoms. If a Bartholin cyst forms an abscess (infection), symptoms may include pain, change in size with swelling, drainage, redness and fever. Larger cysts that aren’t infected may cause symptoms including:
- Irritation
- Pain during sitting, walking, or sex