OpenHealth Q&A

Struggling with a Persistent Vaginal Cyst – Seeking Guidance

Hello everyone, I am a 24-year-old female and have been searching for others who might have faced a similar issue, but I haven’t found much. I am dealing with recurring cysts situated to the right of my vaginal opening, around the area of the Bartholin gland. Doctors I’ve consulted have dismissed them as Bartholin cysts, labeling them instead as perineal cysts, which I disagree with since they are located directly on my lower labia majora. The discomfort is severe; initially, it feels like a lump develops beneath my skin, ultimately transforming into a painful boil that resembles the size of a grape tomato. When it drains, I experience immediate relief. I have struggled with these cysts since 2020. In 2021, I consulted an OBGYN who suggested surgery to resolve the issue. I had my first procedure in June 2021 and recovered well. However, a year later, in June 2022, the cysts reappeared and have been intermittently troubling me ever since. In November 2024, I visited the ER to have one drained, and while it was manageable after that, it didn’t return to its previous size. Rather, it developed a smaller swelling, discharging incompletely thick, yellow-green fluid. In February 2025, I saw a different OBGYN to discuss my ongoing worry regarding the cysts. She recommended delaying another surgical intervention, expressing concern over potential chronic pain post-surgery. I adhered to her suggestion, but after a couple of months, I felt I could not endure the issues any longer. We proceeded with a second surgery in May 2025, which she claimed went well. Unfortunately, recovery has been incredibly challenging; my stitches began to open, leading to constant infections, pus discharge, and swelling of the Bartholin gland. I found it painful to walk for over 15 minutes or even to stand. Despite voicing my struggles multiple times, my OBGYN seemed dismissive and continuously prescribed various antibiotics without addressing my actual concerns. To detail the antibiotics I’ve taken: - On June 3rd, I was prescribed Sulfamethoxazole. - On June 10th, I was again given Sulfamethoxazole. - On July 8th, I started Levofloxacin (only for 3 days), after which I switched to Amoxicillin on July 14th. None proved effective. Following a culture of my surgical site on July 21st, it was identified that I have MDR E. coli. My OBGYN referred me to an infectious disease specialist, which heightened my anxiety; my health concerns have been overwhelming. On July 31st, the ID doctor reassured me about the MDR E. coli, explaining its prevalence in the environment but mentioned that it appeared healing better than I believed. She also suspected that my OBGYN didn’t manage to remove everything during surgery, indicating the possibility of needed revision surgery before considering IV antibiotics. On that same day, my ID doctor prescribed me Linezolid and Amoxicillin. I also have an appointment with a wound care specialist in four days. I have a few questions that are causing me confusion: Should I wait to start the new antibiotics until I consult with the wound care specialist to avoid developing antibiotic resistance? Am I justified in seeking a new OBGYN, given my concerns about my most recent OBGYN’s attention to my situation? I'm feeling quite lost and anxious, and any advice or insights would be immensely appreciated. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

Answers (1)

8/1/2025, 4:31:19 PM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you're going through a very challenging time with persistent cysts and infections in a sensitive area. Managing these types of issues can be daunting, but there are constructive steps you can take to address your concerns and seek the care you deserve.

Main Points:

1. Consult with your wound care specialist before starting new antibiotics, especially given your history of complex infections.
2. It's completely valid to seek a second opinion from a new OBGYN if you're not feeling heard or supported.

Explanation: Bartholin cysts can become problematic if they become infected or block the duct of the gland. Your history with surgeries and the subsequent infections suggest a need for thorough evaluation and possibly a different treatment approach. Sensitivities like MDR E. coli complicate the situation further, as some antibiotics may be ineffective against it. It’s important to have a healthcare team that listens to your concerns and provides adequate support tailored to your condition.

Next Steps:

1. Wound Care Consultation: Attend your upcoming appointment with the wound care specialist. Discuss your ongoing symptoms and ask them their perspective on the best approach for antibiotic use. It’s crucial to manage infections without compromising your treatment options.

2. Timing of Antibiotics: Hold off on starting the new antibiotics until after your wound care appointment. Your healthcare providers can determine the most effective treatment plan tailored to your specific situation, and introducing new antibiotics prematurely could complicate future assessments.

3. Consider a New OBGYN: If you feel that your current OBGYN isn't addressing your concerns adequately, consider seeking a second opinion. It’s your right to have a healthcare provider who listens and collaborates with you. Look for an OBGYN experienced in managing recurrent lesions or infections, on the recommendation of your wound care specialist if possible.

4. Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, treatments, and any side effects you experience from medications. This will be very helpful in discussions with any healthcare providers.

5. Support System: Share your feelings and experiences with trusted friends or family. Having emotional support can be beneficial during this challenging time.

Remember, you are advocating for your health, and seeking out proper care is important for your recovery. If you have further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out again. You're not alone in this journey.