Bartholin's glands are paired oval-shaped glands located on each side of the vaginal opening that produce lubricating secretions. Bartholin's gland infection, or Bartholinitis, can be caused by various bacteria and may result in complete resolution, recurrence, abscess formation, or cyst formation. A Bartholin's abscess is an infection of one of the glands that causes severe pain and swelling. Treatment involves antibiotics, sitz baths, and draining the abscess. A Bartholin's cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can cause discomfort and dyspareunia, and treatment is marsupialization to remove the cyst.

1. Bartholin’s gland infection
Dr. Yashika

2. Bartholin’s Gland
Structure:
Paired gland, oval-shaped 0.5
cm long .
2 cm long efferent duct
connects each gland to the
postero-lateral aspect of the
vaginal orifice.
Location : 5 O'clock and 7
O’clock position of hymen.

3. Function :
The production of mucoid secretion that lubricates the
distal end of the vagina during intercourse.
The glands become active after menarche and are non
palpable.

4. Bartholinitis
Causative agent:
• Gonococcus
• Streptococcus
• Staphylococcus
• E. coli

5. End result :
• Complete resolution
• Recurrence
• Abscess
• Cyst formation

6. Clinical features :
• Local pain discomfort.
• Difficulty in walking / sitting.
Examination :
• Tenderness
• Induration of post half of vagina.
• Secretion coming out from the duct when pressed.

7. Treatment
Local :
Systemic:
Ampicillin 500 mg TDS
Hot compress
Analgesics

8. Bartholin’s Abscess
End result of acute Bartholinitis.
Abscess
Exudates pent up
Duct gets blocked due to fibrosis.

9. Clinical features:
• Severe local pain and discomfort.
• Difficult / painful walking and sitting.
On examination:
• Unilateral tender swelling.
• Oedomatous red overlying skin.

10. Treatment:
• Rest.
• Sitz bath.
• Systemic antibiotic Ampicillin 500 mg.
• Drainage of abscess.

11. Bartholin’s cyst
The content is colourless glairy liquid.
C/f :
• Small cyst : usually unnoticed.
• Larger cyst : Local discomfort and dyspareunia.

12. Examination:
• Unilateral swelling on post half of labia majora.
• Projection on vulval cleft into S-shape.
• Overlying skin is shiny and thin.
• Cyst remains non tender and fluctuant.
Treatment:
• Marsupilisation.

13. Thank you