How to prepare for a video visit about Bartholin Cyst - Triage

Audience: pediatric

A Bartholin cyst is a fluid-filled swelling near the opening of the vagina that can sometimes cause discomfort or pain. In children and adolescents, it is important to monitor symptoms carefully and seek medical advice when needed. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess the cyst, discuss symptoms, and decide if further care is needed. This guide explains how to prepare for a telemedicine appointment about a Bartholin cyst, what to expect during the visit, and when to seek urgent care. It also covers common questions families may have. Remember, this information is for education and triage only and does not replace an in-person exam or diagnosis.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pain or rapidly increasing swelling near the vaginal area — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with redness or warmth around the cyst — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• Difficulty urinating or walking due to swelling or pain — go to emergency services promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and history taking.
• Visual inspection via video if privacy and comfort allow.
• Providing guidance on home care and symptom monitoring.
• Deciding if in-person evaluation or urgent care is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical procedures like cyst drainage or biopsy.
• Providing definitive diagnosis without in-person exam if needed.
• Managing severe infections requiring immediate intervention.
• Ordering imaging or laboratory tests that require a visit to a healthcare facility.

What is a Bartholin Cyst?

A Bartholin cyst happens when the Bartholin gland, located on each side of the vaginal opening, gets blocked. This causes fluid to build up and form a swelling. The cyst may be painless or cause discomfort, especially if it becomes infected (called an abscess). In children and teens, cysts are less common but can still occur.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, find a quiet, private place with good lighting. Have a list of symptoms ready, including when they started, any pain or swelling, fever, or other concerns. If comfortable, you may be asked to show the area via video to help the provider assess the cyst. Make sure your device is charged and your internet connection is stable.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Appointment

The healthcare provider will ask about symptoms, medical history, and any changes you have noticed. They may guide you to gently show the affected area on camera. Based on this, they will suggest next steps, which might include home care advice, prescriptions, or an in-person visit if needed.

When to Seek Immediate Care

If your child has severe pain, spreading redness, high fever, difficulty walking or urinating, or if the swelling grows rapidly, seek emergency medical care promptly. These could be signs of a serious infection needing urgent treatment.

Common Treatments and Follow-Up

Many Bartholin cysts go away on their own or with simple home care like warm compresses. Sometimes, antibiotics or minor procedures are needed. Your provider will explain what to do next and when to follow up, either by video or in person.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a private, well-lit space for the video visit.
• Charge your device and ensure a stable internet connection.
• Prepare a list of symptoms and questions.
• Have a trusted adult present if the patient is a child or adolescent.
• Be ready to describe or gently show the affected area if comfortable.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on home care, such as warm compresses.
• Monitor symptoms closely and note any changes.
• Take prescribed medications as directed.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek immediate care if red flags develop.

FAQs

What causes a Bartholin cyst in children?

Bartholin cysts form when the gland's duct becomes blocked, causing fluid buildup. In children and teens, this can happen due to infection, injury, or sometimes for no clear reason.

Can a Bartholin cyst go away on its own?

Yes, many Bartholin cysts resolve without treatment. Warm compresses can help the cyst drain naturally and relieve discomfort.

When should I take my child to the doctor?

If the cyst is painful, growing, or accompanied by fever or difficulty urinating, you should seek medical advice promptly. A video visit can help decide if in-person care is needed.

Is it safe to show the cyst on a video call?

Yes, if you and your child are comfortable, showing the area can help the provider assess the cyst better. The provider will respect your privacy and guide you through the process.

What treatments might be recommended?

Treatment ranges from home care with warm compresses to antibiotics if infected. In some cases, minor procedures may be needed, which require an in-person visit.

Sources

1. Bartholin Gland Cysts and Abscesses — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Bartholin Gland Cyst — Mayo Clinic.
3. Bartholin's Cyst and Abscess — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.
4. Telehealth: Delivering Care Safely During COVID-19 — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for an in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have urgent symptoms or concerns, seek immediate medical care.