Overview
What is a Bartholin gland cyst in children?
The Bartholin glands (Bar·tho·lin's glands or greater vestibular glands) are located on each side of the vaginal opening.
They make a small amount of lubricating fluid. If skin grows over the opening of one of the glands, or if it becomes infected, fluid can back up, causing a round swelling called a cyst.
These cysts can range from tiny to golf ball-sized, and they may be tender.
Bartholin's glands were first described in 1677 by Danish anatomist Casper Bartholin Secundus.
Signs and Symptoms
What are the signs and symptoms of a Bartholin gland cyst in children?
A round, painless or slightly tender bulge near the opening of the vagina
Significant tenderness, or discomfort while walking or sitting
Diagnosis
How is a Bartholin gland cyst in children diagnosed?
Your daughter’s doctor can diagnose a Bartholin gland cyst based on her symptoms and visual inspection.
If the cyst becomes infected, this can cause significant swelling and pain with need for drainage in the office or operating room. Sometimes, an infected cyst may drain on its own and resolve with local supportive care.
Treatment
How is a Bartholin gland cyst in children treated?
For mild, non-infected Bartholin gland cysts, your daughter’s doctor may prescribe a few days of sitz baths – during which your daughter will sit in a few inches of warm water several times a day. This often allows the cyst to rupture and drain with minimal discomfort.
If her cyst is large or infected, the doctor can make a small incision to drain the fluid or insert a tube that allows fluid to drain out for several days. Your daughter will receive antibiotics if she has an infection.
