Bartholins

Bartholins, in medical terminology, refers to the Bartholin's glands, also called the greater vestibular glands. These are two small glands located on either side of the vaginal opening. They secrete mucus that lubricates the vagina, and their ducts open into the vestibule near the posterior part of the vaginal opening.

The glands are named after Caspar Bartholin the Younger, a Danish anatomist.

Blockage of the ducts can form Bartholin's cysts. Infection of the gland, or of a cyst, causes Bartholinitis, which can progress to a Bartholin abscess characterized by painful swelling, redness, and fever in some cases. Bartholin gland pathology occurs most commonly in sexually active women of reproductive age; cancer of the Bartholin glands is rare.

Diagnosis is usually based on clinical examination; imaging such as ultrasound may be used if the presentation is atypical. Management depends on the condition. Asymptomatic cysts may be observed. Symptomatic cysts can be treated with Word catheter drainage or marsupialization; complete gland excision is reserved for recurrent disease. An abscess requires incision and drainage, often with antibiotics; antibiotic therapy is tailored to cover typical aerobic and anaerobic organisms and to treat any concurrent sexually transmitted infection when present.

Prognosis is generally favorable with prompt treatment; recurrence can occur. Prevention and hygiene are broad, general measures, and persistent or recurrent Bartholin gland problems may require consultation with a gynecologist.