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What Causes Recurring Bartholin’s Cysts?
Question: I have had recurring bartholin cysts for a few year and this past April had a marsupialization done. I've been back to both my GP and Gyno because of a thin watery discharge with an unbearable odor . At first we thought BV but had two swabs done and both came back negative. Still 3 months later with the odor. Haven't been able to have sex with my husband since the procedure because it just to smelly and embarrassing. Maybe you have some suggestions?
Brief Answer:
You may need excision of the Bartholin cyst completely
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
So, based on what you are stating, I am guessing that the odor and discharge were not present before the marsupialization. If this is the case, then I suppose that the Bartholin cyst may be the source of the discharge and odor, now that it is draining.
Marsupialization is just creating a new opening in hopes that the cyst will drain properly (it produces a mucousy discharge). If it is not draining properly, it might lead to a collection of discharge that becomes odorous and then eventually makes its way out.
I would recommend the following:
1. Please go back to your OB/GYN and have them do an examination of the area
2. They can hopefully determine if the cyst is the source of the discharge and possibly try to culture the fluid from where the cyst was marsupialized
3. If they do not agree with excision of the entire cyst, then you probably need to be on a more prolonged course of medication that would cover bacteria that are associated with this odor
4. A second opinion with another OB/GYN is always a good idea as well
I hope this helps,
Dr. Raichle
You may need excision of the Bartholin cyst completely
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
So, based on what you are stating, I am guessing that the odor and discharge were not present before the marsupialization. If this is the case, then I suppose that the Bartholin cyst may be the source of the discharge and odor, now that it is draining.
Marsupialization is just creating a new opening in hopes that the cyst will drain properly (it produces a mucousy discharge). If it is not draining properly, it might lead to a collection of discharge that becomes odorous and then eventually makes its way out.
I would recommend the following:
1. Please go back to your OB/GYN and have them do an examination of the area
2. They can hopefully determine if the cyst is the source of the discharge and possibly try to culture the fluid from where the cyst was marsupialized
3. If they do not agree with excision of the entire cyst, then you probably need to be on a more prolonged course of medication that would cover bacteria that are associated with this odor
4. A second opinion with another OB/GYN is always a good idea as well
I hope this helps,
Dr. Raichle
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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