Vulvar health · Bartholin guide

Who Gets Bartholin Cysts?Şişli · Nişantaşı · Istanbul

Bartholin cysts occur most often during the reproductive years, particularly in young adults. Age does not establish the diagnosis. A new lump after age 40 or after menopause needs careful assessment.

Bartholin cyst: Who Gets Bartholin Cysts? | Şişli, Nişantaşı, Istanbul
Bartholin cyst — Hariadhi, CC BY-SA 4.0. Original illustration.

Why is it more common in reproductive years?

Gland activity and duct function are relevant during the reproductive years, when Bartholin cysts are encountered more often. They are particularly familiar in young adults, including people in their twenties and thirties. Similar lumps can nevertheless arise at other ages. Being in a common age group does not make every vulvar swelling a Bartholin cyst.

Does a previous cyst matter?

A previous cyst or abscess on the same side is an important part of the history. A drainage opening can close again, allowing another swelling to develop. Knowing whether you previously had simple drainage, a catheter or marsupialisation helps plan further care. Bring an operation note or pathology report if you have one.

Can it happen without sexual intercourse?

Marital status is not a diagnostic criterion. Having no history of intercourse does not exclude a vulvar lump. Examination is planned around the symptoms, age, consent and comfort of the person being assessed. The same instruments are not automatically needed for everyone; proposed examinations should be explained beforehand.

Why are pregnancy, diabetes and immune conditions relevant?

Pregnancy affects the selection of medicines and the planning of procedures. Poorly controlled diabetes or immunosuppression can influence infection assessment and follow-up. These circumstances do not by themselves prove what caused a cyst. Fever, rapidly worsening pain or feeling generally unwell should not be left until a routine review.

What changes after age 40 or menopause?

A new mass in the Bartholin region at age 40 or older, or after menopause, requires consideration of biopsy. A firm, fixed, irregular or persistent mass also needs further evaluation. Bartholin gland cancer is rare; the purpose of careful assessment is to avoid assuming that every lump is an uncomplicated cyst.

Frequently asked questions

What changes after age 40 or menopause?

A new mass in the Bartholin region at age 40 or older, or after menopause, requires consideration of biopsy. A firm, fixed, irregular or persistent mass also needs further evaluation. Bartholin gland cancer is rare; the purpose of careful assessment is to avoid assuming that every lump is an uncomplicated cyst.

Is this information enough to diagnose my lump?

No. Other vulvar conditions can look similar. An examination is needed to establish the cause and select an appropriate plan.

Bartholin assessment in Şişli, Istanbul

Appointments take place at Dr Alparslan Demir’s office in Şişli. Patients travelling from Nişantaşı and other parts of Istanbul can confirm directions and appointment availability before visiting.

19 Mayıs Mah., Halaskargazi Cad. No:226/1, Çiftkurt Apartmanı, Kat:1, Daire:1 · Şişli / İstanbul

0212 284 07 08 · WhatsApp · Directions and contact