DEAR DR. GOTT: Can you explain what causes Bartholin cysts. Six months ago at the age of 66, I experienced one and visited my doctor. The cyst drained on its own so no surgery was involved.
I now have another one and even though I use antibacterial soap, clean towels and practice good hygiene, I am dealing with the problem again.
I am single, female, and not involved in any relationship so what can I do to prevent further cysts?
DEAR READER: A Bartholin cyst results when the opening (known as a duct) of the Bartholin glands on each side of the vagina become blocked. Fluid secretions back up into the gland, causing swelling known as a Bartholin cyst.
Symptoms depend on the size of the cyst and whether infection is present. In some instances, the cyst may not be noticed and the person would be considered asymptomatic. However, should the cyst enlarge or become infected and result in an abscess, there may be pain at the site, general discomfort with walking or sitting, vaginal discharge and possible fever. As you have found, these cysts, once they occur, can appear again, requiring additional and possible surgical treatment.
Cysts that are large and become infected may require surgical drainage that can be done in a physician’s office under local anesthesia unless the patient and physician opt for general sedation in a hospital. If drainage is performed, a small incision is made in the cyst. A catheter is inserted and may remain in place for up to six weeks to keep the drainage site open. The catheter will then be removed allowing the incision site to close and heal.
Diagnosis can be made by your general practitioner or a gynecologist who should perform a pelvic examination and who may take a sample of your vaginal secretions to test for infection or for several sexually-transmitted diseases. If an STD is revealed, antibiotics will be prescribed to ensure all bacteria are destroyed. For those women over the age of 40 or who are post-menopausal, your doctor may recommend a biopsy to test for cancerous cells.
On the home front, you can take sitz baths several times each day. This involves pouring a couple of inches of warm water into your tub and squatting or sitting in the water. This process will keep the area clean, while promoting drainage of the cyst. Over-the-counter or physician-prescribed pain relievers might be taken if discomfort is present. Unfortunately, other than surgery, there really isn’t a means of preventing return bouts of a Bartholin cyst other than maintaining good hygiene and practicing safe sex if appropriate with the use of a condom, a practice that eliminates or substantially reduces the possibility of future STDs.
You appear to be doing all the right things so stick with the program and see your physician or specialist when necessary.
Readers who would like related information can order my Health Report “Medical Specialists” by sending a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and a $2 US check or money order to Dr. Peter Gott, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form from my website, www.AskDrGottMD.com.
