Because the Bartholin’s glands secrete mucus, a blockage can cause that mucus to fill the gland. As the fluid accumulates, it causes the gland to swell and expand. Eventually, it develops into a cyst. In some cases, Bartholin’s gland cysts can become infected and form abscesses. Many different types of bacteria can cause infections that affect the cysts. Some are bacteria responsible for sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Other possible bacteria include E. coli.

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