Patient's question:
Age: 40 years oldDoctor's answer:
Bartholin's cyst is also known as a vestibular gland cyst. The vestibular glands are about the size of a peanut, located on both sides of the vaginal opening and behind the vestibular bulbs, covered by the bulbocavernosus muscles. Each gland contains a very thin duct, only 1.5 to 2 centimeters long, which opens into the vaginal vestibule. During sexual arousal, the glands secrete a pale yellow alkaline mucus to moisten the vaginal opening. Under normal circumstances, the vestibular glands are invisible and cannot be felt. However, if they become inflamed due to infection or form scars after trauma, the duct openings may become blocked. Alternatively, during childbirth, perineal laceration may occur, or damage to the ducts may happen during a perineal episiotomy, leading to the duct openings being closed after suturing. If secretions cannot be expelled and accumulate inside, the glands may swell and form a cyst. As the cyst grows, it may protrude outward, becoming visible and palpable—this is what constitutes a Bartholin's cyst. Bartholin's cysts are generally small and grow slowly, with patients often experiencing no symptoms and requiring no treatment. Simple attention to external genital hygiene and regular medical check-ups are sufficient. However, if the cyst grows rapidly, recurs frequently, or even forms an abscess, with patients experiencing local discomfort or pain during intercourse, treatment is necessary.