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Warning-sign checks

Bartholin gland cyst: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact the clinic sooner if pain or swelling is getting worse rather than better.

    Fever, spreading redness, heavy bleeding, difficulty urinating, or feeling unwell should be assessed promptly.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up needs vary.

    An uncomplicated cyst that improves without a procedure may only need routine monitoring.

    Return for medical assessment if it enlarges, becomes painful, drains foul-smelling material, or does not settle.

    After catheter placement or marsupialization, attend the recommended follow-up visit.

    The clinician may check healing, remove a catheter if needed, review laboratory results, and discuss ways to manage recurrence.

The article also says

If a cyst opens and drains on its own, keep the area gently clean and use a pad to absorb fluid.

Do not probe the opening.

Medical review is still appropriate if pain continues, the lump remains, or signs of infection develop.

A recurring lump should not simply be assumed to be the same condition each time.

Reassessment can confirm the diagnosis and help determine whether a longer-lasting drainage procedure, biopsy, or specialist referral is appropriate.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Bartholin gland cyst. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.