Bartholin's glands are two small glands located just beside the lower part of the vaginal opening. Each gland produces a small amount of mucus fluid, which is drained by a short duct called the Bartholin's gland duct. Normally, the gland is not palpable. A Bartholin's gland cyst forms due to the closure of the natural duct. Its size can vary and it can gradually increase.
Surgical treatment involves releasing the contents of the cyst either by puncture or by cutting the surface, thereby removing the contents. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia but is also associated with short-term effects with frequent recurrences. The most permanent effect is the removal of the entire cyst along with its lining (the membrane that forms the cyst wall).
The removed mass is sent for histological examination to determine whether it is malignant or benign. In the case of a positive result, further treatment is proposed to the patient.
Basic Information
- The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia
- It is necessary to stop taking hormonal contraception 2-3 weeks before the procedure to reduce the risk of postoperative thromboembolic disease
- It is recommended to shave the external genitalia before the surgery
- On the day of the surgery, the patient must not eat or drink for 6 hours before the procedure
- The stitches are absorbable and do not need to be removed
- After thorough postoperative observation, the patient can leave the medical facility within a few hours
- Before leaving for home care, each patient is informed about their health condition and arranges a follow-up appointment with their surgeon (usually the next day)
- After the procedure, the patient may experience mild pain at the surgical site, which usually requires analgesic treatment
- The procedure usually does not limit the patient in daily life; it is recommended to shower instead of bathing, avoid activities that could cause bleeding or infection (do not use menstrual tampons, vaginal douches)
- Keep the wound dry with sufficient access to fresh air. Limit sexual intercourse until the surgical wound is completely healed (at least 3-4 weeks)
- Complications are very rare (bleeding during and after surgery, infection, tearing of the surgical wound, prolonged wound healing, formation of hypertrophic to keloid scars, allergic reaction to disinfectants, medications, or materials used)