Sitz Baths for Bartholin Cyst Treatment: How Do They Work?
Oftentimes, we find ourselves dealing with medical concerns we didn’t even know could be a problem until a diagnosis hits. Other times, we may know about a certain problem, but until we actually see a doctor, we don’t know what is going on. In the case of Bartholin Cysts, many women who run into this medical concern find that they did not even realize they had these cysts before being told about it by a doctor, while on the other hand, women may find out they have them due to an infection or other concern that may have them seek out medical attention.
In fact, it is estimated that about two out of every ten women will find themselves dealing with Bartholin Cysts at some point in their lifetimes. Luckily, being diagnosed with Bartholin Cysts doesn’t mean you have to suffer – there are treatments for the cysts that can help.
What are Bartholin Cysts?
Bartholin Cysts are cysts that form in the Bartholin’s glands, which are glands located on either side of the vagina’s opening. These glands are pea-sized and important for providing lubrication to the vagina. However, over time, the glands can get blocked and have fluid back inside them, causing cysts to form. Oftentimes, these cysts are small and do not cause any problems at all. However, there are times when the cysts can get infected and cause pain, swelling, and other concerns that may require medical attention. Luckily, these cysts are almost always benign and are very rarely cancerous.
How are Bartholin Cysts Treated?
Bartholin cysts can often be treated at home and do not always require medical intervention. Some home remedies can be used to treat Bartholin cysts, including sitz baths. However, some women find that they need a more surgical removal for their cysts – this is often the case for cysts that are infected or cannot be resolved through other means.
Sitz Baths for Bartholin Cysts
One of the most popular treatments recommended for treating Bartholin’s Cysts is the sitz bath. Sitz baths can be useful for a variety of reasons – one of them being the at-home treatment of Bartholin’s Cysts.
A sitz bath is a shallow bath full of warm water that you sit in. The warm water allows your body to relax its muscles, as well as relieve pain in the vaginal, anal, and perineal areas. It encourages the area to heal itself by improving blood circulation in the area affected – in this case, the Bartholin’s glands.
The main reason that many physicians recommend a sitz bath for bartholin cysts is due to the fact that they can be helpful in causing the cysts to burst and drain on their own. While it does not work in every case, trying this method is often the first step to getting rid of the cysts.
How Do I Use a Sitz Bath?
A sitz bath can be done at home in your own bathtub by filling it about three or four inches full of warm water. You can also purchase kits that allow you to attach a basin to your toilet, which you can fill with water and sit on it. Whichever method you choose, you should soak the area for about twenty minutes. Unless your doctor gives you a prescription for medication or recommends adding anything to the water, do not add anything to the water – the warm water itself should help. You may be advised to do several sitz baths per day.
Sitz baths are generally safe as it is pure, warm water. It is essential to remember not to fill the tub with water that is too hot because it can burn you. Aim for a temperature that is warm and comfortable and not hot.
What if a Sitz Bath Doesn’t Work?
In extreme cases, when a sitz bath does not work or if the cysts become infected, your doctor may recommend a different approach. This approach is known as CO2 laser treatment for Bartholin’s Cysts. Your doctor will use a CO2 laser to make a small incision in the area, and the abscesses will be drained and removed. The area is then cleaned with a saline solution. This treatment is usually done under local anesthetic.
If you would like to learn more about Bartholin Cysts or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ghozland, call the office today at 310-393-9359, and we will be happy to help.