Lead poisoning in pregnant women and the fetus: causes, risks, and how to avoid infection

Bartholin’s gland is one of the small glands that many people don’t know much about, but it plays a significant and important role in a woman’s sexual experience. This gland helps lubricate the vagina during intimacy, making intercourse easier and more comfortable. However, when problems occur with this gland, such as infections or blockages, it can cause severe pain during sex and lead to issues in the marital relationship. In this Dalili Medical article, we will explore the function of Bartholin’s gland, its connection to sexual activity, the causes of common problems affecting it, and how to care for it to ensure a healthy and comfortable intimate experience.

What is Bartholin’s gland?
It’s a small gland located next to the vaginal opening. Its job is to secrete a natural fluid that lubricates the area during sexual intercourse, helping make sex easier and more comfortable.

What is a Bartholin’s cyst?
This happens when the duct of the gland gets blocked, causing fluid to build up inside and form a small cyst.

Is a Bartholin’s cyst always painful?
Not always. Sometimes the cyst is small and doesn’t cause any discomfort. But if it becomes infected or fills with pus, it can cause pain and swelling.

Why does a Bartholin’s cyst form?
Usually because of a blockage in the gland’s duct due to inflammation, bacterial infection, or injury to the area.

How is a Bartholin’s cyst treated?
Treatment depends on the case. It might start with warm compresses and antibiotics. If it gets worse, drainage or a minor surgical procedure like marsupialization may be needed.

Can the cyst come back after treatment?
Yes, it can return if the blockage or infection isn’t fully treated, especially if the drainage wasn’t complete.

Can Bartholin’s gland be removed?
This is a last resort, used only in rare cases where both medical and surgical treatments have failed.

Does Bartholin’s gland cause serious problems?
Usually not. But when blocked or infected, it can cause pain and sexual difficulties, so proper care and early treatment are important.

Can I prevent Bartholin’s cyst?
Yes, the most important thing is to maintain gentle personal hygiene and avoid vaginal injuries or excessive friction, which reduce the chance of blockage or infection.

Can a Bartholin’s cyst turn into a serious tumor?
This is very rare. Most cysts are benign and not dangerous, but if you notice any changes in size or shape, see your doctor immediately.

Do I have to have Bartholin’s gland removed?
Removal is very rare and only considered when all other treatments fail to work.

Can I wash the area with disinfectants to prevent infection?
Hygiene is very important, but you should use gentle, specially formulated products for the sensitive area to avoid dryness or irritation.

When should I see a doctor immediately?
If you experience severe pain, obvious swelling, warmth in the area, or foul-smelling discharge, you should see a doctor right away.

Can Bartholin’s cyst come back after treatment?
It can, especially if not properly drained or if the blockage persists, so regular follow-up is very important.

What is marsupialization?
It’s a simple surgical procedure where the doctor makes a permanent open pouch from the cyst to prevent blockage and reduce recurrence.

Is a Bartholin’s cyst painful?
Not always, but if it becomes infected or forms an abscess, the pain can be severe and needs prompt treatment.

Where is Bartholin’s gland located?
Bartholin’s glands are located on each side of the vaginal opening, specifically on the inner lips (labia minora). Each gland has a small duct about 2 to 2.5 cm long that opens into an area called the vestibule, just below the hymen.

Does Bartholin’s gland cause infertility?
The Bartholin’s gland itself does not directly cause infertility. However, if problems or infections occur in the gland, this can indirectly affect your comfort during intercourse, which might sometimes reduce the chances of pregnancy due to difficulties or pain during sex.

What is the function of Bartholin’s gland?
The primary function of the gland is to secrete mucus during sexual activity. This fluid lubricates the vagina and vulva, helping the male organ enter smoothly without pain or discomfort. The gland starts working from the girl’s first menstrual cycle, meaning after puberty.

Which age group is more prone to Bartholin’s gland infection?
Any woman can develop an infection, but the most susceptible group is women aged 20 to 29 years, as the risk of infection is higher in this age range.

Signs and symptoms of Bartholin’s gland infection you should know
At first, a small cyst in Bartholin’s gland might not be noticeable or felt, especially if it is small and not infected. But when the cyst grows, you may feel or see a lump near the vaginal opening.

The cyst itself is usually soft and painless, but problems begin when it becomes infected or inflamed. Then swelling occurs with clear, bothersome pain, which can be so severe it affects walking or even sexual intercourse, making it painful and difficult.

In some cases, the infection can cause fever or elevated temperature, which is a sign of active inflammation needing urgent treatment.

Bartholin’s gland and sexual intercourse: what you need to know

Vaginal lubrication to ease intercourse
Bartholin’s gland secretes a natural sticky fluid that acts as a lubricant for the vagina. This lubrication reduces friction during sex, making intercourse easier and more comfortable, especially for women who suffer from vaginal dryness.
Facilitating penile penetration (insertion)
Thanks to these secretions, penile entry into the vagina becomes easier and less painful, which is very important at the start of a relationship or when vaginal secretions are insufficient.
Increasing pleasure and comfort during sex
Natural lubrication increases comfort, making sexual relations more enjoyable for both partners and enhancing sexual satisfaction.
Role of Bartholin’s gland secretions
The gland becomes more active when a woman is sexually aroused, releasing mucus that lubricates the vaginal opening. This fluid protects tissues from excessive friction and makes sex easier and more comfortable.
Impact of the gland on sexual comfort
When the gland works well and produces enough fluid, the chances of pain or sensitivity in the vagina decrease, allowing the woman to enjoy intercourse without problems.
Sexual stimulation and increased gland secretions
Sexual arousal stimulates Bartholin’s gland activity, increasing its secretions as a natural and important part of preparing for intercourse.

Problems of Bartholin’s Gland and Their Impact on Sexual Intercourse

Inflammation or blockage of the gland:
If the gland gets blocked or infected, the fluid accumulates inside forming a cyst or abscess. This causes swelling and pain in the vaginal area, making sexual intercourse painful and difficult.

Importance of diagnosis and treatment:
If you feel any pain or swelling in this area before or during sex, you should consult a doctor to treat the problem quickly and protect your sexual health.

Impact of Bartholin’s cyst on the reproductive system and intercourse

Size and symptoms of the cyst:
Bartholin’s cysts can be as small as a pea or as large as a marble. Some cysts cause no symptoms, but inflamed or large cysts cause pain and swelling.

Causes of cyst formation:
Blockage of the gland’s ducts due to inflammation, thick mucus, or infection — including sexually transmitted infections.

Signs of a Bartholin’s cyst:

Swelling near the vulva, which may be painful or painless.
Redness and noticeable swelling.
Difficulty sitting, walking, or having sex.
Sometimes fever and chills.
Drainage of pus or discharge from the cyst.

Diseases affecting Bartholin’s gland: simplified explanation

Bartholin’s gland is important for vaginal lubrication but can suffer from various problems affecting its health and function. Here are the most common conditions explained clearly:

Bartholin’s cyst (gland cyst)
Occurs when the gland duct is blocked and fluid accumulates inside, forming a cyst.
Symptoms: Small lump near the vaginal opening, feeling of heaviness or pressure. The cyst can be small and painless or grow and cause visible swelling.
Bartholin’s gland infection (Bartholinitis)
When bacteria infect the cyst or gland, causing inflammation.
Symptoms: Severe pain, redness, swelling, sometimes fever. If severe, it can turn into an abscess full of pus.
Bartholin’s gland abscess
An advanced stage where pus collects inside the gland, causing intense pain.
Symptoms: A swollen, red, hot lump with severe pain, especially when walking, sitting, or having sex.
Chronic or recurrent infections
Some women may suffer repeated infections of the gland, affecting comfort and sexual life quality.
Duct blockage without cyst formation (gland congestion)
Sometimes the duct is partially blocked but no cyst forms, reducing fluid secretion and causing a feeling of pressure without clear pain.
Chronic inflammation without abscess
Mild, repeated inflammation without abscess formation causing sensitivity and discomfort, especially during sex.
Chronic bacterial infection
More common in women with weakened immunity or poor hygiene, leading to repeated infections.
Benign and rare tumors
Benign tumors like fibromas or papillomas can appear on or around the gland and are usually not dangerous.
Rarely, malignant tumors (cancer) can develop, requiring immediate medical follow-up.
Non-bacterial inflammation
Inflammation may not always be caused by bacteria; it can be due to allergies, chemical irritation, or repeated injuries in the area.

If you notice any of these symptoms or feel pain or swelling near Bartholin’s gland, you should see a specialist quickly for diagnosis and treatment to maintain your comfort and sexual health.

Modern methods to diagnose Bartholin’s gland inflammation

Diagnosis starts with a physical exam, but sometimes additional tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess severity. Here are the main diagnostic methods:

Clinical examination
The doctor inspects the external vaginal area for swelling, redness, or pain near Bartholin’s gland and checks for lumps or swelling by touch.
Ultrasound imaging
Used to determine the size of the cyst or abscess and differentiate between inflamed cysts and tumors or pus collections. This is a painless and quick procedure.
Blood tests
Sometimes ordered to check for infection markers such as elevated white blood cells, helping to assess the severity of inflammation and presence of bacterial infection.
Culture and sensitivity test of pus
If an abscess is present, a pus sample is taken and analyzed to identify the bacteria causing the infection and to select the most effective antibiotic treatment.
Additional imaging (MRI or CT scan)
In rare or complicated cases, MRI or CT scans may be required to evaluate the extent of infection or clarify unclear diagnoses.

Bartholin’s Gland Problems: Complications and Risks

If inflammation or cysts in Bartholin’s gland are ignored, serious problems can develop affecting your daily life, including:

Pain and swelling: Usually felt around the vaginal area, worsening when walking or sitting.
Pain during intercourse: Inflammation or abscess formation may cause pain during sex, negatively affecting sexual desire.
Difficulty moving or sitting: Large swelling can make movement uncomfortable and difficult.
Abscess filled with pus: When an abscess forms, it can cause severe pain and fever, requiring urgent medical treatment.
Recurrent infections: Some women experience repeated episodes of swelling and inflammation, impacting quality of life.
Spread of infection: Untreated infections can spread to surrounding tissues or even the pelvis, posing serious health risks.
Psychological impact: Persistent pain and discomfort can affect mood, mental health, and marital relationships.
Chronic duct blockage: Can cause repeated cysts or chronic inflammation, requiring ongoing monitoring and treatment.
Scarring or fibrosis: Repeated infections or surgeries may cause stiffening or scarring in the area, affecting skin elasticity and vaginal lubrication.
Changes in vaginal appearance: Large or recurrent swellings may alter the shape or size of the area around the gland.
Need for surgery: In severe or chronic cases, surgery to drain the abscess or remove the gland might be necessary, requiring careful follow-up.

Effects of Bartholin’s Gland on Sexual Life and Pregnancy

1. Negative Impact on Sexual and Psychological Health

Problems with Bartholin’s gland, like constant pain or fear of recurring inflammation, significantly affect marital relations.
Pain during intercourse can lead to avoiding sex altogether.
Anxiety and fear of pain or swelling reduce sexual desire, harming intimacy and understanding between spouses.

2. Role of Bartholin’s Gland in Facilitating Intercourse and Increasing Pregnancy Chances

Bartholin’s gland plays an important role in sexual and reproductive health by:

Secreting a natural mucus that lubricates the vaginal opening during sexual arousal.
This lubrication reduces friction and pain, making intercourse smoother and more comfortable.
Comfortable, natural intercourse encourages regular sexual activity, which increases the chances of pregnancy.

3. Creating a Favorable Environment for Sperm

The mucus secreted reduces vaginal acidity, creating a better environment for sperm survival.
It helps sperm move more easily through the vagina to reach the egg.

4. Effect of Bartholin’s Gland Problems on Pregnancy

If the gland is blocked or inflamed (like with a Bartholin’s cyst), the area becomes painful and swollen.
This pain reduces comfort during intercourse, leading to less frequent sexual activity.
Less frequent intercourse lowers natural pregnancy chances.

5. Psychological Effects of Gland Problems

Continuous pain or discomfort negatively affects mental well-being.
Stress and anxiety reduce overall sexual desire, indirectly affecting fertility.

6. Tips to Care for Bartholin’s Gland and Maintain a Healthy Relationship

Maintain good hygiene of the intimate area regularly.
Treat any infection or gland problems quickly to avoid complications.
Regular medical follow-up to ensure gland health and normal function.
Taking care of Bartholin’s gland not only preserves your health but also ensures a healthy, comfortable marital relationship and naturally improves pregnancy chances.

Treatment of Bartholin’s Gland Problems

1. Conservative (Non-surgical) Treatment

Usually the first step, especially for early or mild inflammation.

Components of conservative treatment:

Warm compresses:
Relieve pain and swelling.
Use warm (not hot) water-soaked compresses on the area for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times daily.
Warmth improves blood flow and encourages natural drainage of cysts or abscesses.
Painkillers:
Like paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation.
Use as directed by your doctor or package instructions.
Antibiotics:
Not always necessary.
Used if there is bacterial infection or if an abscess is forming.
Complete the full antibiotic course even if symptoms improve.
Avoid pressure on the area:
Avoid prolonged sitting.
Wear loose, cotton underwear.
Avoid rubbing or pressure on the gland.

When to use conservative treatment:

Mild to moderate pain.
Small, uncomplicated cyst or inflammation.
Early symptoms and early diagnosis.

2. Abscess Drainage (Incision and Drainage)

When needed:

Large, painful abscess causing complications.
Failure of conservative treatment.

Procedure steps:

Examination and local anesthesia to identify abscess site.
Small incision on the skin over the abscess to drain pus.
Purpose: relieve pain and inflammation by removing pus.

3. Bartholin’s Catheter Drainage and Marsupialization Surgery

Bartholin’s Catheter (Small Drainage Tube)

After abscess drainage, a small catheter may be inserted in the incision.
How it works:

Keeps the drainage opening open for 2 to 4 weeks.
Allows continuous drainage, preventing fluid buildup and recurrence.
Helps gland heal properly.

Aftercare:

Follow-up with your doctor.
Keep area clean.
Use warm compresses if needed.

Benefits:

Pain reduces quickly.
Abscess and inflammation heal well.
Significantly lowers risk of gland blockage recurrence.

Marsupialization Surgery

When to do it:
For cysts or abscesses that recur multiple times despite treatment.

What is it?
Surgeon makes a small incision in the cyst.
Instead of closing the cyst lining, stitches its edges to the vaginal skin.
This creates a permanent opening for drainage.

Advantages:

Greatly reduces chance of gland blockage recurrence.
Keeps gland functioning by allowing normal mucus secretion.
Less pain and faster recovery compared to gland removal.

After surgery:

Mild pain that resolves quickly.
Follow-up important for hygiene.
Continue warm compresses if needed.

Is it risky?
No, it’s a simple procedure usually done under local anesthesia.
Success rate is very high.

4. Bartholin’s Gland Removal (Excision)

When to remove the gland:

When problems are persistent and severe.
When all other treatments fail (conservative, drainage, marsupialization).
Chronic inflammation or cysts causing ongoing pain.
Rarely, if there is a risk of other serious diseases.

How is the surgery done?

The gland is surgically removed.
Usually under general or regional anesthesia.
Procedure is straightforward but requires precision to protect surrounding tissue.

Pros and cons of gland removal:

Pros:
Eliminates problem permanently.
Prevents recurrence of cyst or abscess in that gland.
Cons:
May reduce natural vaginal lubrication in that area.
Longer recovery than other treatments.
Possible post-surgery discomfort or pain.

After surgery:

Need rest and recovery time.
Regular follow-up to ensure proper healing.
Meticulous hygiene to prevent infection.

Comparison Table: Bartholin’s Gland vs Bartholin’s Cyst

Feature	Bartholin’s Gland	Bartholin’s Cyst
Definition	Small gland near vaginal opening that secretes mucus for lubrication	Fluid or mucus collection inside the gland due to blocked duct
Location	Near vaginal opening (labia majora)	Same location but swelling due to fluid buildup
Function	Secretes mucus to lubricate vagina during sex	No function, abnormal fluid accumulation
Symptoms	Usually none if gland is healthy	Swelling, often painless; pain if infected or abscess
Cause	Normal functional gland	Blocked duct or bacterial infection causes fluid build-up
Treatment	No treatment needed if normal	Depends on case: monitoring, warm compresses, antibiotics, or surgery
Complications	None if healthy	Can cause infection, abscess, pain, may need surgery

Prevention of Bartholin’s Gland Problems

Maintain personal hygiene:
Wash the intimate area daily with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap to prevent irritation and infections.
Wear cotton underwear:
Cotton allows good ventilation, reducing moisture and friction, which lowers infection risk.
Avoid very tight clothes:
Tight clothes cause friction and increased sweating, harming gland health and intimate area.
Care for sexual health:
Use water-based lubricants if vaginal dryness occurs to reduce friction.
Maintain good hygiene for yourself and your partner before and after intercourse.
Avoid harsh chemicals:
Avoid scented wipes, perfumes, and strong soaps that can irritate or cause allergies.
Don’t share personal items:
Avoid sharing towels or underwear to prevent infection transmission.
Regular medical check-ups:
See a doctor promptly if you notice pain, swelling, or any unusual changes for early diagnosis and treatment.
General health care:
Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and keep your immune system strong to fight infections better.

Medical Specialty for Bartholin’s Gland Treatment

Treatment of Bartholin’s gland issues is mostly handled by Obstetrics and Gynecology specialists, since the gland is part of the female reproductive system.
In complicated cases, such as large abscesses, a gynecologic surgeon or sometimes a general surgeon may be involved.
But always, the first step is to visit a gynecologist for correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.