Do Bartholin Cysts Affect Fertility?

When it comes to women’s health, there are so many confusing issues and concerns we have to watch out for. Bartholin cysts are common but can be a source of confusion and worry for many women, especially when it comes to fertility. These cysts form when the Bartholin glands near the vaginal opening get blocked, and fluid accumulates and forms a lump. Bartholin cysts themselves are usually benign and often resolve on their own or with minimal treatment, but the connection to fertility is a common question.

Let’s get into what Bartholin cysts are, what causes them, how they’re treated, and most importantly, if they can affect a woman’s fertility.

What are Bartholin Cysts?

The Bartholin glands are two small glands on either side of the vaginal opening. These glands help with lubrication, especially during sexual activity. Normally the Bartholin glands release a small amount of fluid that keeps the vaginal area moist. But if the ducts of these glands get blocked, the fluid can’t drain, accumulates in the gland, and forms a Bartholin cyst.

Bartholin cysts can be small and barely noticeable or larger and uncomfortable lumps. In some cases the cyst can get infected and forms a Bartholin abscess which is more painful and may need more urgent treatment.

Causes and Symptoms of Bartholin Cysts

The exact cause of a Bartholin cyst is not always clear. However some of the contributing factors are bacterial infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or trauma to the area. Infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia can block the Bartholin glands and increase the chance of a cyst forming. But many Bartholin cysts are not related to infections and can be caused by a blockage in the ducts for other reasons like chronic irritation or friction.

Many women may not have symptoms if the cyst is small. But if the cyst grows, it can cause discomfort, especially during walking, sitting, or sexual intercourse. If the cyst gets infected and forms an abscess, the symptoms can be:

• Severe pain
• Swelling
• Redness around the vaginal opening
• Fever

In this case, immediate medical attention is needed to drain the abscess and possibly treat the infection with antibiotics.

Fertility

A common concern for many women who have Bartholin cysts is if these cysts can affect their fertility. The good news is Bartholin cysts do not affect fertility. These cysts are external and do not touch the ovaries, fallopian tubes or uterus – all of which are important for conception and pregnancy.

Since the cysts are in the glands responsible for lubrication and are external to the reproductive organs they don’t affect ovulation, fertilization or implantation of an embryo. Most women with

Bartholin cysts can get pregnant and carry a pregnancy without any issues related to the cyst.

Complications That May Affect Fertility Indirectly

Bartholin cysts themselves don’t affect fertility, but certain complications from their treatment or other underlying conditions can have an indirect impact. These include:

Surgery and Scarring

If recurrent or large Bartholin cysts need surgery scarring can occur. Some women may worry that this scarring can affect sexual function or fertility. But scarring from Bartholin cyst surgery is usually minimal and external and has no effect on reproductive organs. Only in very rare cases where severe infection spreads to deeper tissues there can be a risk of complications that can affect reproductive health.

Infections

If the Bartholin cyst gets infected, the infection can spread if left untreated. Infections related to STIs can affect fertility. For example, untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can damage the fallopian tubes and increase the risk of infertility. However, the infection itself, not the Bartholin cyst, is the cause of fertility concerns in these cases.

Discomfort During Sex

Large or infected Bartholin cysts can cause pain during sex, which can indirectly affect a woman’s sexual health and frequency of sex. This discomfort doesn’t affect fertility directly but can affect a couple’s ability to conceive because of the pain and avoidance of sex.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

Some women may experience emotional distress from recurrent Bartholin cysts, especially if they are painful or require frequent medical interventions. This stress can affect overall well-being and, in some cases, indirectly affect fertility through hormonal imbalances or low libido. However, these effects are psychological and not because of the cyst itself.

If you’re experiencing discomfort or emotional distress related to Bartholin cysts, contact Dr. Ghozland for personalized care and treatment options to support your health and well-being.