Bartholin's Cyst

Overview of Bartholin's Cyst

Bartholin's Cyst Meaning in Urdu

اس بیماری کی وجہ سے ویجائنا کی میں ایک تھیلی نما چیز بن جاتی ہے جو کہ سیال سے بھری ہوتی ہے۔ عام طور پر بننے والی تھیلی کی وجہ سے تکلیف کا سامنا نہیں کرنا پڑتا اور یہ مزید طبی علامات کی وجہ بھی نہیں  بنتی۔ تاہم اگر اس تھیلی کا سائز بہت زیادہ بڑھ جائے تو بیٹھتے، چلتے، یا  جنسی سرگرمی کے دوران درد لاحق ہو سکتا ہے۔ کچھ خواتین کو اس بیماری کی وجہ سے بخار کا بھی سامنا کرنا پڑ سکتا ہے۔ اس کے علاوہ اگر یہ تھیلی انفیکشن کا شکار ہو جائے تو کچھ مزید طبی علامات بھی ظاہر ہو سکتی ہیں۔

Bartholin's cyst also known as the vulvar cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms in one of Bartholin's glands, located on either side of the vaginal opening. These glands produce a fluid that helps lubricate the vagina.

When the gland gets blocked, the fluid can build up and form a cyst. Bartholin's cysts are usually painless. However, they can become infected and cause pain and discomfort.

Some common symptoms of a Bartholin's cyst include a painless lump near the vaginal opening, swelling, and redness. If the cyst becomes infected, symptoms may include pain, tenderness, and the formation of a pus-filled abscess.

Prevalence of Bartholin’s Cyst

Bartholin's cysts can occur in any sexually active woman. They are commonly seen in women between 20-30 years of age. Globally, 3 in 100 women usually get a Barlothin’s cyst, and 2% of women get a Barlothin's cyst at some point in life

Signs and Symptoms of Bartholin's Cyst

Bartholin cyst symptoms include:

  • A lump or swelling near the vaginal opening: This is often the first and most noticeable symptom of a Bartholin's cyst. The lump may be small or large, and it may be painful or painless.
  • Pain during sexual intercourse: As the cyst grows larger, it can cause discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
  • Pain during physical activity: Activities such as walking, sitting, or exercising may become uncomfortable as the cyst grows larger.
  • Discomfort while sitting: As the cyst becomes larger, it may put pressure on surrounding tissues, making sitting uncomfortable.
  • Swelling and redness: The affected area may become swollen and red due to inflammation.
  • Discharge: The cyst may become infected, leading to the development of pus or discharge.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Types of Bartholin's Cyst

Causes of Bartholin's Cyst

Bartholin cyst causes are not always clear, but the most common cause is a blockage or obstruction of the duct that carries fluid from the Bartholin's gland to the vaginal opening. This blockage can occur for various reasons, such as:

  • Poor hygiene: If the vaginal area is not kept clean, bacteria can build up and cause an infection, leading to a Bartholin's cyst.
  • Sexually transmitted infections: Certain sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, can cause inflammation and blockages in the Bartholin's glands.
  • Trauma or injury: In rare cases, trauma or injury to the area around the Bartholin's gland can cause a cyst to form.
  • Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels during menstruation or menopause may affect the Bartholin's glands and increase the risk of cyst formation.
  • Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of developing a Bartholin's cyst. 
Happniness

Risk Factors of Bartholin's Cyst

Some of the risk factors that may increase a person's likelihood of developing a Bartholin's cyst include:

  • Infections: Infections of the Bartholin's gland or surrounding tissues can increase the risk of cyst formation.
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Certain STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can increase the risk of Bartholin's cysts.
  • Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene habits can lead to bacterial buildup, which may increase the risk of cyst formation.
  • Injury or trauma: Injuries or trauma to the area near the Bartholin's gland can increase the risk of developing a cyst.
  • Previous cysts: Having a history of Bartholin's cysts increases the risk of developing future cysts.
  • Age: Women of reproductive age (between puberty and menopause) are more likely to develop Bartholin's cysts.
  • Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormonal levels may increase the risk of Bartholin's cysts.

It is important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop a Bartholin's cyst. Conversely, some people may develop a cyst without having any of these risk factors. If you are experiencing symptoms of a Bartholin's cyst, such as pain or swelling in the vaginal area, speak with a Gynecologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Health Complications Due to Barotholin's Cyst

While many Bartholin's cysts are harmless and don't require treatment, some can cause complications, including:

  • Infection: A Bartholin's cyst can become infected, leading to an abscess. Symptoms of an infected cyst can include pain, swelling, redness, fever, and a discharge with a foul odor.
  • Pain and discomfort: Larger Bartholin's cysts can cause pain and discomfort, especially when walking or sitting.
  • Difficulty with sexual activity: A Bartholin's cyst can make sexual activity uncomfortable or painful.
  • Recurrence: Even after successful treatment, Bartholin's cysts can recur.
  • Complications during pregnancy: In rare cases, a Bartholin cyst during pregnancy can grow and cause discomfort or difficulty during childbirth.

 

If you suspect that you have a Bartholin's cyst or are experiencing symptoms related to one, it's important to see a Gynecologist for evaluation and treatment.

Happniness

Prevention

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Bartholin's cysts from occurring, there are a few things that you can do to reduce your risk:

  • Practice good hygiene: Keeping the area clean and dry can help prevent infections leading to Bartholin's cysts. Wash the external genital area with mild soap and warm water during a shower or bath.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh soaps, douches, or other products that can irritate the area.
  • Wear breathable clothing: Wearing loose, breathable clothing and cotton underwear can help prevent irritation and sweating, which can lead to cyst formation.
  • Practice safe Intercourse: Use protection and practice safe sex to avoid sexually transmitted infections, which can increase the risk of Bartholin's cysts.
  • Seek medical treatment for infections: If you have symptoms of infection in the genital area, such as pain, swelling, or discharge, seek medical treatment promptly. Early treatment can prevent infections from becoming more severe and leading to cyst formation.
Happniness

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider can diagnose Bartholin's cysts with a physical exam of the genital area. During the exam, the provider will typically look for the presence of a tender, swollen lump near the vaginal opening. Your doctor may also ask about any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as pain, discomfort, or discharge.

In some cases, the doctor may perform additional tests to confirm the diagnosis, rule out other conditions, or determine the severity of the cyst. These tests may include:

  • Ultrasound: An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the body’s internal structures. It can help the provider confirm the presence of a cyst and determine its size and location.
  • Biopsy: In rare cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out the possibility of cancer.

 

It is essential to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a Bartholin's cyst, as untreated cysts can become infected and lead to more serious complications. Your healthcare provider can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Treatment of Bartholin's Cyst | When to Consult a Doctor

The treatment of Bartholin's cysts depends on the size and severity of the cyst, as well as any symptoms that may be present. Here are some of the treatment options:

  • Warm compresses: Applying warm compresses to the cyst several times a day can help reduce swelling and pain. Soaking in a warm bath may also be helpful.
  • Antibiotics: If the cyst is infected, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.
  • Surgical drainage: If the cyst is large or causing significant discomfort, your healthcare provider may recommend draining the cyst using a small incision. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting.
  • Marsupialization: This is a surgical procedure in which the cyst is opened and stitched to the surrounding tissue to create a small pouch, allowing the cyst to drain continuously.
  • Removal of Bartholin gland: If the cyst is recurrent or does not respond to other treatments, surgical removal of the Bartholin gland may be recommended.

It is essential to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a Bartholin's cyst. A Gynecologist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment based on your situation.