Information
Bartholin’s duct cysts are the most common cysts of the labia minora, occurring in about 2% of women. Abscesses are 3 times more common than cysts. Infection of a Bartholin’s gland or cyst results in the development of an abscess. Symptoms may include vulval/vaginal swelling, pain, pyrexia or dyspareunia.
Treatment Options
A small, asymptomatic cyst can be managed conservatively with a bath or warm compress to encourage drainage.
- Spontaneous drainage
If the cyst or abscess has ruptured and pus is draining, take a swab for culture to guide or indicate antibiotics if this fails to resolve spontaneously. Patient with surrounding cellulitis around the gland usually benefit from antibiotics (see recommendations below). No further treatment or follow-up is usually required.
- Medical treatment
Antibiotics may be used if there is evidence of cellulitis around the Bartholin gland.
Antibiotic Recommendation
Recommended total duration: 5 days
Recommended Antibiotic: Co-amoxiclav 625mg every 8 hours orally.
Penicillin Allergy: Co-trimoxazole 960mg every 12 hours orally AND
Metronidazole 400mg every 8 hours orally.
Pregnancy: Amoxicillin 1g every 8 hours orally AND
Metronidazole 400mg every 8 hours orally.
Pregnancy & Penicillin Allergy: Clindamycin 300mg every 6 hours.
- Surgical intervention or Insertion of a Word Catheter remain the mainstay of treatment for symptomatic cysts and abscesses.
Full guideline available Microsoft Word – Bartholin Cyst (scot.nhs.uk)
B.C & K.R. 25-07-24
