Diagnosis

To diagnose a Bartholin's cyst, your doctor may:

• Ask questions about your medical history
• Perform a pelvic exam
• Take a sample of secretions from your vagina or cervix to test for a sexually transmitted infection
• Recommend a test of the mass (biopsy) to check for cancerous cells if you're postmenopausal or over 40

If cancer is a concern, your doctor may refer you to a gynecologist who specializes in cancers of the female reproductive system.