In this article:
We spoke to Dr Sarada Vani about how a Bartholin cyst may affect your pregnancy and ways to manage it.
She is a senior consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology, a minimal access surgeon (specialising in laparoscopy), and a high-risk pregnancy specialist at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad.
What Does a Bartholin Cyst Feel Like During Pregnancy?
If you notice the following signs, it may indicate a Bartholin cyst:- A small, painless lump on one side near the vaginal opening
- Swelling on the affected side of the vulva
- Pressure or discomfort while sitting or walking
- A lump that becomes larger or smaller over time
Signs that the cyst may be infected include:
- Increasing or severe pain
- Red, hot or swollen skin
- Pus or unpleasant-smelling discharge
- Fever or feeling generally unwell
- Increasing difficulty sitting or walking
Can a Bartholin Cyst Affect Pregnancy?
In most cases, a Bartholin cyst is small and not infected. Therefore, it usually does not interfere with pregnancy. Your doctor may suggest monitoring it instead of immediate treatment if it does not cause significant symptoms.If the cyst gets infected, it may develop into an abscess. The inflammation associated with an abscess may lead to pain. The severity of pain may vary. In severe cases, your doctor may consider prescribing antibiotics or drainage.
Your doctor may plan your treatment depending on the stage of your pregnancy. Your doctor can consider the benefits and risks of any medicine or procedure based on how far along you are.
Importantly, do not take antibiotics or pain medicines on your own during pregnancy. Your doctor can choose an option that is appropriate for you and your pregnancy.
How Is a Bartholin Cyst Treated During Pregnancy?
Dr Vani said that treatment mainly depends on the size of the cyst, associated symptoms and the presence or absence of infection.A small cyst may settle or drain naturally. Warm-water soaking can sometimes ease discomfort, but never squeeze, puncture or attempt to drain the lump yourself.
Dr Sarada Vani explains that a Word catheter helps keep the drainage opening in place while the area heals, which may reduce the chance of recurrence.
If cysts keep returning, a gynaecologist may recommend marsupialisation, a procedure that creates a lasting drainage opening. The most appropriate approach during pregnancy depends on your individual circumstances.
Can a Bartholin Cyst Come Back?
Yes. A cyst or abscess can recur even after treatment, particularly if the gland duct becomes blocked again. Recurrence cannot always be prevented.Maintaining proper hygiene may help reduce the risk of certain infections. However, these measures cannot guarantee that a cyst will not return.
Dr Sarada Vani recommends having recurrent cysts assessed by a gynaecologist so the underlying problem can be reviewed and suitable treatment considered.
When Should You Contact Your Doctor?
Contact your doctor promptly if:- The lump grows or becomes increasingly painful
- The surrounding skin becomes red, hot or swollen
- You notice pus or foul-smelling discharge
- You develop a fever or feel unwell
- Pain makes sitting or walking difficult
- A previously treated cyst returns
- Signs of transformation of cyst into abscess, such as pain, redness, or pus formation locally with fever
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FAQs on Bartholin Cyst and Pregnancy: What You Should Know
- Can a Bartholin cyst go away on its own during pregnancy?
Yes. A small cyst that is not infected may settle or drain naturally. Your doctor can advise whether monitoring is appropriate. - Can I have a normal delivery with a Bartholin cyst?
In many cases, a small cyst does not prevent vaginal birth. However, a large or painful cyst near the vaginal opening should be assessed by your obstetric team, particularly as delivery approaches. - Can a Bartholin cyst harm my baby?
A simple cyst does not usually affect the baby. If it becomes infected, you may need treatment. Your doctor can determine which medicines or procedures are appropriate during pregnancy.