Bartholin Cyst
A Bartholin cyst is a fluid-filled swelling near the vaginal opening caused by blockage of a Bartholin gland.
When to get help quickly: Prompt review is important if the area becomes very painful, swollen, hot, starts discharging pus, or fever develops because an abscess may have formed.
Common symptoms
The main symptom is a lump on one side near the vaginal opening. It may be painless at first, but a larger cyst can cause discomfort when walking, sitting, or having sex.
When imaging helps
Imaging helps when the swelling is deep, unusual, repeatedly recurring, or the diagnosis is not clear on examination.
What radiology does
Imaging is not always needed, but ultrasound can help if the swelling is unusual, deep, or the diagnosis is uncertain.
What usually happens next
Management may include observation, drainage, treatment of infection, or gynecology review depending on symptoms.
Seen this on your report?
Your doctor or the radiologist who wrote it can tell you what it means for you.