Are Bartholin gland cysts caused by an infection?
Most of the time, Bartholin gland cysts are not infected and can’t be spread to others. In some cases, however, they can be caused by an infection, or they may get infected after they get bigger. Your doctor may want to culture the cyst fluid to see if an antibiotic is needed. Most infected cysts contain the normal bacteria that are found on our skin. Some infected cysts, called Bartholin gland abscesses (say this: ab-sess-es), are caused by sexually transmitted germs. How do I know if I have a Bartholin gland cyst? You may notice a round, painless or slightly tender bulge within one of the vaginal lips, near the opening of the vagina. The cyst may stay the same size or may slowly grow larger. Cysts that get infected are usually very tender. In extreme cases, walking may be painful. Your doctor will look at the area to see if you have a Bartholin gland cyst and to find out if it’s infected. How are Bartholin gland cysts treated? The treatment depends on the size of the cyst, how painfu
