Bartholin Gland Cyst

Excerpt

The Bartholin glands, or greater vestibular glands, are homologs of the bulbourethral glands in the male. They are 2 pea-sized (about 0.5 cm) mucus-secreting glands positioned at the lower posterior sides of the vaginal opening, typically near the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions, that help provide moisture to the vulva and vagina. They drain through ducts that are 2.0 to 2.5 cm long and are located between the labia minora and the hymenal edge. In a healthy state, these glands are typically not palpable during a physical examination.

A Bartholin gland cyst forms when the duct becomes obstructed, allowing fluid to accumulate underneath the skin (see Image. Bartholin Gland Cyst). Cysts and abscesses often occur after the onset of puberty. The incidence decreases after menopause, at which time the risk of malignant transformation must be considered, especially in recurrent or complex cases.