Bartholin Cyst: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Bartholin's gland cyst


Hello Doctor, I recently developed a bump near my vaginal opening that resembles a pimple, and it hurts when I walk or sit.
It has been getting larger.
I have had similar issues in the past that required excision, but this time it is on a different side.
Should I seek medical attention immediately? Additionally, I often experience lower abdominal pain and bloating two to three days after my period, along with increased discharge.
I also feel pain when urinating, and I have a long-term issue with excessive discharge that varies in consistency, sometimes thick and other times watery.
What should I be aware of? I am currently not pregnant.

Ms. Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/30

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Recently, I have developed a bump near the vaginal opening that resembles a pimple.
It hurts when I walk or sit, and it is getting larger.
I have had similar growths before that were surgically removed, but this time it is on a different side.
Should I seek medical attention immediately? Additionally, I often experience lower abdominal pain and bloating two to three days after my menstrual period, along with increased discharge.
It also hurts when I strain to urinate, and I have a long-term issue with excessive discharge that varies in consistency, sometimes thick and other times watery.
What should I pay attention to? I am currently not pregnant.
I should seek medical attention for a pelvic examination and ultrasound.

Reply Date: 2019/04/30

More Info


Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms, and it's important to address them properly. Based on what you've described, it seems you may be dealing with a Bartholin cyst, which can indeed present as a painful lump near the vaginal opening. Bartholin glands are located on either side of the vaginal opening and can become blocked, leading to the formation of a cyst.

Symptoms of Bartholin Cyst
The symptoms of a Bartholin cyst can include:
- A noticeable lump or swelling near the vaginal opening.

- Pain or discomfort, especially when sitting or walking.

- Possible tenderness in the area.

- If the cyst becomes infected, you may experience increased pain, redness, and possibly fever or discharge.

Given that you mentioned the cyst has been growing and is painful, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. An examination by a healthcare professional can help determine the best course of action.

Treatment Options
Treatment for a Bartholin cyst can vary based on its size, symptoms, and whether it is infected. Common treatment options include:
1. Observation: If the cyst is small and not causing significant discomfort, it may simply be monitored.

2. Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to the area can help alleviate discomfort and may encourage drainage if the cyst is not too large.

3. Drainage: If the cyst is large or painful, a healthcare provider may perform a procedure to drain it. This can often be done in the office.

4. Marsupialization: For recurrent cysts, a minor surgical procedure called marsupialization may be performed, which creates a small opening to allow the cyst to drain continuously.

5. Antibiotics: If there is an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.


When to Seek Help
You should definitely seek medical attention if:
- The cyst is growing rapidly.

- You experience severe pain or discomfort.

- There are signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or pus-like discharge.

- You have persistent symptoms like abdominal pain and unusual discharge, especially if these symptoms are new or worsening.


Additional Concerns
Regarding your mention of abdominal pain and unusual discharge after your menstrual period, this could be related to several factors, including hormonal changes, infections, or other gynecological conditions. It's important to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider, as they can help determine if further evaluation is needed, such as a pelvic exam or ultrasound.


Conclusion
In summary, given your symptoms of a painful lump and additional concerns regarding abdominal pain and discharge, I recommend that you see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can provide a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment options tailored to your needs. Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. Take care!

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