From the Research
A draining Bartholin gland cyst typically appears as a tender, swollen area on one side of the vaginal opening that is actively releasing fluid, with the surrounding tissue often appearing red, inflamed, and swollen, and the size varying from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. The discharge may be clear, cloudy, or purulent (containing pus) depending on whether the cyst is infected 1. When draining, patients usually experience relief from the pressure and pain that was previously caused by the fluid accumulation. If the cyst is infected (forming a Bartholin abscess), the drainage may have an unpleasant odor and be yellowish or greenish in color. The area might feel warm to the touch due to inflammation.
Key Characteristics of a Draining Bartholin Gland Cyst
- Tender, swollen area on one side of the vaginal opening
- Actively releasing fluid
- Surrounding tissue appears red, inflamed, and swollen
- Size varies from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter
- Discharge may be clear, cloudy, or purulent
- May have an unpleasant odor if infected
- Area may feel warm to the touch due to inflammation Bartholin gland cysts form when the duct that drains the gland becomes obstructed, causing fluid to back up and form a cyst. When this blockage resolves naturally or through intervention, drainage occurs. While spontaneous drainage can provide temporary relief, recurrence is common without definitive treatment such as marsupialization, Word catheter placement, or gland excision in severe cases 2.
Management Options
- Expectant management with comfort measures
- Medical management with antibiotics
- Surgical management with marsupialization, Word catheter placement, or gland excision Current evidence does not support the use of any single surgical intervention for the treatment of a symptomatic cyst or abscess of the Bartholin's gland, and further research is needed to identify an effective treatment 1.