When to Seek Treatment for a Bartholin’s Cyst
Not often spoken about, a Bartholin’s cyst can be uncomfortable, and even sometimes downright painful for some women. These common cysts often find themselves occurring in women of childbearing age, but can affect women of all ages and life periods. In fact, about two out of ten women will develop a Bartholin’s cyst in their lifetimes. While often small in size and nothing too worrying, they should be looked at by a professional in order to determine what kind of treatment may be needed for the cysts.
What is a Bartholin’s Cyst?
A Bartholin’s cyst is a cyst that occurs within the Bartholin’s glands, which are the glands that are located on the inner part of the vagina’s opening. These glands secrete fluid in order to lubricate the vagina. If the glands become blocked with fluid, it can build up inside the glands, causing a cyst to form. These cysts can be painless or painful, large or small, and can cause an assortment of issues from pain during activity and sex to lack of lubrication in the vaginal area.
When Does a Bartholin’s Cyst Require Treatment?
If you notice small or large bumps in the area just inside the vagina, you should visit a gynecologist and have them examined. Any time something doesn’t feel right with your body, you should not hesitate to get it looked at, because your health is of utmost importance!
While you cannot determine whether or not you have a Bartholin’s cyst without it being looked at by a medical professional, you are sure to notice other symptoms that may indicate a cyst, including a lump near the entrance to the vagina (often tender or painful), the discomfort of pain during sexual intercourse or while walking, sitting, or performing other activities, and in severe cases, a fever.
What Does Treatment for a Bartholin’s Cyst Entail?
Treatment for a Bartholin’s cyst often relies on several factors. If the patient is under the age of forty, many doctors will take a sample of the tissue for biopsy to rule out certain diseases, such as cancer of the vulva.
The most common treatment for Bartholin’s cysts, and one of the most effective, is a CO2 laser treatment to remove the cysts. This treatment does not require an in-hospital stay or lengthy recovery, but rather vaporizes the cysts and removes the blockages easily and effectively. This outpatient procedure leaves the glands intact and unblocked, allowing them to function normally when the patient has healed.
Other treatments, especially for severe cases, include in-patient surgeries.
If you would like to learn more about Bartholin’s cysts, CO2 laser treatments, or to book an appointment for more information or an exam, please call the office of Dr. Ghozland today.