Bartholin's ducts, also known as larger vestibular glands, are two small glands that are positioned slightly to the side and behind the vagina's opening. These glands are the female equivalent of the bulbourethral glands found in males.
The primary function of the Bartholin's glands is to produce a mucus-like fluid. This fluid is secreted into the vagina and around the labia minora. The purpose of this mucus is to keep the vulva moisturised. Additionally, it acts as a lubricant during sexual intercourse, helping to reduce any potential friction.
The ducts of the Bartholin's glands open up into the vaginal opening. These glands are located in the external perineal pocket in females. In contrast, the male counterpart, the bulbourethral glands, are situated in the deeply located perineal pocket. The ducts of these glands open into the navicular fossa and their length ranges from 1.5 to 2.0 cm. The paired ducts have visible openings on the surface of the vulva.