Bartholin's gland

The Bartholin's glands (also called Bartholin glands or greater vestibular glands) are two glands located slightly below and to the left and right of the opening of the vagina in women. They secrete mucus to provide lubrication, especially when the woman is sexually aroused, thus facilitating sexual activity.

Related Topics:
Gland - Vagina - Mucus - Sexually aroused - Sexual activity

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They were first described in the 17th century, by the Danish anatomist Caspar Bartholin the Younger (1655-1738). Some sources mistakenly ascribe their discovery to his grandfather, theologian and anatomist Caspar Bartholin the Elder (1585 - 1629).

Related Topics:
17th century - Caspar Bartholin the Younger - Caspar Bartholin the Elder

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Bartholin's glands are homologous to Cowper's glands in males.

Related Topics:
Homologous - Cowper's gland

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A Bartholin's cyst is formed when a Bartholin's gland is blocked, causing a cyst to develop. If infection sets in, the result is a Bartholin's abscess.

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