Location of Bartholin Cyst
Bartholin cysts are located in the posterior vestibule at the 4 and 8 o'clock positions, bilaterally at the base of the labia minora. 1
Anatomical Details
The Bartholin glands are:
- Positioned bilaterally at the posterior introitus (vaginal opening) 2
- Located in the base of the labia minora 3
- Normally pea-sized structures that drain through ducts emptying into the vestibule at approximately the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions 2
Clinical Presentation
When a Bartholin duct becomes blocked, the gland can enlarge and become palpable:
- The cysts or abscesses appear in the lower vestibular region 4
- They typically present as masses in the labia majora when enlarged 5, 6
- The glands are only palpable when the duct becomes cystic or an abscess develops 2
Key Clinical Distinction
When infected, Bartholin gland abscesses present with:
- Swelling, erythema, and tenderness at the posterior vestibule
- Tenderness that can extend into the entire labia minora 1
- Larger cysts and abscesses are found in the lower vestibular region with erythema and edema 4
This posterior vestibular location at the 4 and 8 o'clock positions distinguishes Bartholin cysts from other vulvar lesions such as Skene gland infections (located lateral to the urethra), epidermal inclusion cysts, or other vulvar masses 1, 2.