women s health issues
Bartholin Gland Cyst and Bartholin Gland Abscess
Diagnosis of Bartholin Gland Cysts or Abscesses
Examination of the vulva Sometimes a biopsy A woman should see a doctor in the following circumstances: The cyst continues to enlarge or persists after several days of immersing the area in hot water (in a tub or sitz bath). The cyst is painful (often indicating an abscess). A fever develops. The cyst interferes with walking or sitting. The woman is over 40. A doctor examines the vulva to diagnose a Bartholin gland cyst. If a cyst is large enough for a woman to notice it or for symptoms to develop, a doctor is able to see or feel the cyst during a Pelvic Examination . Doctors can usually tell whether it is infected by its appearance. If a discharge is present, doctors may send a sample to be tested for other infections, including sexually transmitted infections. If an abscess has developed, doctors also culture fluid from the abscess. Although cancer very rarely develops in Bartholin glands, a doctor may remove a sample of the cyst to examine under a microscope (biopsy), especially if the woman is over 40. 