The Consequences of Ignoring Bartholin’s Cysts Symptoms
Ignoring health concerns is never a good idea, even if they seem as though they are mild enough problems and might actually resolve themselves. Many individuals choose to ignore medical concerns due to lack of time for proper medical care, lack of access to a physician, or even lack of insurance or money to pay for a doctor’s visit. However, ignoring these symptoms is never a good idea, as it can lead to even more severe health concerns and conditions that can become life-threatening. While Bartholin’s Cysts aren’t often that serious, and many women don’t even know they have them until they are examined at a routine appointment, they can cause problems if they are not properly cared for. While they may not always be dangerous, it is important to listen to your body if symptoms do creep up and get to the doctor as soon as you can to have these cysts treated. Let’s take a look at what Bartholin’s Cysts are, as well as what the consequences of ignoring the symptoms of the cysts can be.
What are Bartholin’s Cysts?
Bartholin’s Cysts are small, fluid-filled cysts that form in the Bartholin’s Glands. The Bartholin’s glands are small glands on either side of the vaginal opening. These glands are responsible for providing fluid and lubrication to the vagina. However, there are times when the glands get small blockages and cannot express this fluid as they should, thus resulting in a build-up of fluids that can become cysts. These cysts are often felt as small, hard, or soft lumps. While a woman can have Bartholin’s cysts for a good period of time and not know about them, they can also cause symptoms and discomfort, which typically require medical care in order to resolve.
Home Care for Bartholin’s Cysts
If you have a very mild case of Bartholin’s Cysts, you may be able to treat them at home through the use of sitz baths. These shallow, warm waters can help dissolve the cysts, and they may disappear. However, this does not always resolve the cysts, and if it does not work, a doctor’s visit may be required to remove the cysts.
What are the Symptoms of Bartholin’s Cysts?
Bartholin’s cysts may often have no symptoms at all, which is why many women who have them do not even realize it. However, as they progress, they may start to cause certain symptoms that can cause issues if left untreated. Some of the symptoms of Bartholin’s cysts include:
- Small lumps, either hard or soft, around the area of the Bartholin’s glands
- Pain when touching the area
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain with sexual intercourse or during urination
- Excessive warmth in the area
- Discharge
- Fever
Since every woman is different, symptoms can manifest in different ways. If you do notice that you have any of these symptoms, you should call your doctor immediately.
Ignoring Bartholin’s Cysts Symptoms
Many women may not have the ability to seek out medical care for Bartholin’s Cysts, or they may not have the time and instead hope these symptoms will resolve on their own. However, without proper medical care, Bartholin’s cysts can end up leading to infections, which can be deadly if left untreated. Fever, redness, swelling, and excessive warmth in the area can all be alerting your body that you have an infection that should be treated as soon as possible to avoid dangerous situations, such as sepsis.
Treatment for Bartholin’s Cysts
While many individuals may opt to try clearing up their cysts at home before visiting a doctor, if this does not work for you, it is essential to seek medical care. There are several treatments for Bartholin’s cysts, with the most popular being the removal of the cysts through CO2 lasers. A small incision is made in the area, and then the cyst is drained and removed with the laser. while it may not prevent future cysts from forming, it is effective in removing the current cysts and preventing an infection that can turn deadly if left untreated.
If you would like to learn more about Bartholin’s Cysts, including what methods are used to help remove them, call the office of Dr. Ghozland today at 310-393-9359, and we will be happy to get you set up with an appointment!