Description

• The Bartholin glands are located inferiorly on either side of vaginal opening at the 4 and 8 o'clock positions
• These glands play an important role in the female reproductive system
• Main function is to secrete mucus and provide lubrication
• Ducts open on sides of labial vestibule
• Obstruction of duct usually produces a cyst presenting as a painless lump:
  • Infection of these cysts result in abscess formation

Epidemiology

Prevalence
Most common in women aged 20–30 yr of age

Etiology

• Polymicrobial including anaerobic and aerobic microflora normally found in vagina:
  • Escherichia coli – most common
  • Bacteroides species
  • Staphylococcus aureus
  • Group B strep
  • Enterococcus species
• Occasionally Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis

Risk Factors

• Previous history of Bartholin cyst
• Multiple sexual partners
• Sexually transmitted infection
• Vulva trauma