Bartholin Cyst vs. Skene’s Gland Abscess
There are many different conditions that affect vaginal health. Sometimes, it may be difficult to determine the condition without seeing a trusted healthcare provider. However, any condition affecting vaginal health should be evaluated and treated by your doctor. Two such conditions that may be hard to diagnose include Bartholin cysts and Skene’s gland abscesses. Bartholin cysts and Skene’s gland abscesses are two distinct but related conditions that can affect the glands near the vagina. While both involve blockages and inflammation of glandular ducts, they differ in terms of location, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Let’s take a deeper look into these conditions, and we will provide a comprehensive overview of Bartholin cysts and Skene’s gland abscesses so that you can better understand what these two conditions are and how to tell them apart.
Bartholin Cysts: Overview and Characteristics
Bartholin glands are located on each side of the vaginal opening and are responsible for secreting fluids that lubricate the vaginal lips (labia). A Bartholin cyst occurs when the ducts of these glands become blocked, causing fluid to accumulate and form a painless lump or swelling near the vaginal opening.
Symptoms of Bartholin Cysts:
- Painless lump or swelling near the vaginal opening.
- Discomfort or pain with prolonged sitting or walking.
- Redness and tenderness if the cyst becomes infected (Bartholin abscess).
- Difficulty or pain during sexual intercourse.
Causes of Bartholin Cysts:
- Blockage of the Bartholin gland duct, often due to thickened mucus or bacterial infection.
- Hormonal changes, trauma, or irritation.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Bartholin Cysts:
- Diagnosis is usually based on physical examination.
- Small, asymptomatic cysts may not require treatment but should be monitored.
- Warm compresses and sitz baths can help alleviate symptoms.
- If the cyst becomes infected or causes significant discomfort, drainage or surgical procedures (such as CO2 laser treatments) may be necessary.
Skene’s Gland Abscess: Overview and Characteristics
Skene’s glands, also known as the paraurethral glands, are located near the urethra and can become infected, leading to abscess formation. Unlike Bartholin cysts, Skene’s gland abscesses are less common and typically involve acute inflammation and infection of the glands.
Symptoms of Skene’s Gland Abscess:
- Pain and tenderness near the urethral opening.
- Swelling or lump felt near the urethra.
- Fever and chills if the abscess is accompanied by infection.
- Pain during urination or sexual intercourse.
Causes of Skene’s Gland Abscess:
- Bacterial infection, often due to obstructed ducts or trauma.
- Similar to Bartholin cysts, hormonal changes or irritants may contribute to their formation.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Skene’s Gland Abscess:
- Diagnosis involves physical examination and possibly imaging (ultrasound).
- Treatment typically includes antibiotics to treat infection.
- Incision and drainage may be necessary to relieve pressure and remove pus.
- In some cases, surgical excision of the affected gland may be recommended to prevent recurrence.
Key Differences Between Bartholin Cysts and Skene’s Gland Abscesses
While Bartholin cysts and Skene’s gland abscesses do have many similarities that often leave women confused as to what they may be dealing with, some key differences can help individuals, as well as medical professionals, to determine which condition may be present.
Location
Bartholin cysts occur near the vaginal opening (labia), while Skene’s gland abscesses are located near the urethral opening.
Frequency and Occurrence
Bartholin cysts are more common and often present as painless swellings, whereas Skene’s gland abscesses are less common and typically involve acute infection and inflammation.
Symptoms
Bartholin cysts may initially be painless but can cause discomfort if infected. Skene’s gland abscesses often present with acute pain, tenderness, and systemic symptoms like fever.
Treatment Approach
If infected, Bartholin cysts may be managed conservatively with warm compresses and antibiotics, with surgical drainage such as CO2 laser treatment for persistent or symptomatic cases. Skene’s gland abscesses typically require antibiotics and drainage to resolve the acute infection, with surgical options considered for recurrent cases.
Are you interested in learning more about Bartholin Cysts, Skene’s gland abscesses, or the use of CO2 laser treatments for Bartholin’s cysts? Call the office of Dr. Ghozland today at 310-393-9359 and we will be happy to help you!