WHAT IS BARTHOLIN CYST?

Bartholin glands are a pair of small glands that releases fluid through its ducts into the vagina. This fluid helps in lubricating the vagina. Bartholin cyst occurs when there is a blockage in either one or both the openings of these glands, leading to the formation of a lump.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR BARTHOLIN CYST?

Bartholin cyst is more commonly seen in women :

1. In their reproductive age group(after menarche, before menopause).
2. When they are young and sexually active
3. has not become pregnant yet(nulliparous)
4. has had just one pregnancy

WHAT ARE THE COMPLICATIONS OF BARTHOLIN CYST?

Sometimes a cyst can become infected and this can lead to the formation of an abscess(formation and collection of pus). This cyst/ abscess has a tendency to recurrence.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF BARTHOLIN CYST?

Many Bartholin cysts do not cause any symptoms, discovered only a small pea-sized, painless mass lying just outside the vagina. If/ when its size gets increased, you may notice:

1. Tenderness
2. erythema(redness), near the vaginal opening
3. fever
4. Discomfort while sitting and running.
5. Painful intercourse

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF BARTHOLIN CYST?

It can occur because of the buildup of fluid near the opening of ducts. This leads to blockage and the fluid made further along gets no way to drain out and thus leading to the formation of cysts. This cyst at times can get infected and cause abscess formation.

DIAGNOSIS OF BARTHOLIN CYST

The diagnosis is made by the doctor by pelvic examination. Some other tests or a vaginal swab may be advised to rule out the other causes.

TREATMENT OF BARTHOLIN CYST

Conventional treatment includes the use of antibiotics, painkillers, and surgical drainage of cyst/ abscess.

MANAGEMENT OF BARTHOLIN CYST

Sitz bath: soaking in warm water or applying warm compresses can help the cyst to burst thus preventing the formation of an abscess. Sexually active people should use condoms. You should clean your perineal area with clean water and avoid the use of any chemicals without a doctor’s permission.

HOMEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT OF BARTHOLIN CYST

Homeopathic treatment has a variety of medicines that can help reduce the size of cysts as well as prevent the formation of abscesses such as belladonna, hepar sulph, silicea, nitric acid, etc. Apart from this, the tendency of recurrence of this cyst can be permanently annihilated by giving the constitutional medicine, without any side effects.

DO’S AND DON’TS

DO’S

• bathe/ clean your vaginal area with plain, clean water, and pat dry gently.
• Wipe yourself from front to back after passing urine or stools.
• Wear clean, cotton underwear instead of synthetic ones.
• Use condoms during sexual intercourse to avoid any STDs.

DON'TS

• Do not use any vaginal medications or deodorant washes.
• Do not use bubble baths, bath oils, or highly perfumed bath products.
• Do not wear tight-fitting clothing around the genital area as it can cause friction, decrease circulation and invite infection.
• Do Not use a tampon for more than 4hrs at a time during your periods.