Question

Bartholin’s glands are situated
a) On either side of the vagina in humans
b) On either side of vas deferens in humans
c) On the sides of a head of some amphibians
d) At the reduced tail end of birds.

Answer 1

Hint: Bartholin’s gland is the gland that is in pea shape and is a compound adrenal gland. They have a homologous association with the bulbourethral gland. It may cause cyst formation in some cases. This situation is known as Bartholin’s abscess.

Complete answer:
Bartholin gland is pea-sized glands present on either side of the vagina. They are compound alveolar glands. They secrete mucus to help in the lubrication of the vagina. They are located in the superficial perineal pouch of the female. They have ducts that open into the vulva. They secrete fluids which are essential for lubrication during sexual arousal.

It consists of high potassium and low sodium concentrations relative to blood plasma and is slightly acidic in nature. They form cyst and lead to situations called baroclinities. It can turn more infectious and can lead to vulvar cancer.

Additional information:
- Bulbourethral glands are present in male mammals. It is an exocrine gland. They release pre-ejaculate fluid which is secreted during sexual arousal. It is secreted to neutralize the acidity of the urethra and the passage of sperm can occur easily. The fluid is rich in mucoproteins. They don’t release sperm or have sperm in their fluid.
- Amphibians’ skin is rich in glands. They have parotid glands present on the back of their neck and shoulder. These can be seen in toads, frogs, and salamanders.
- In birds, uropygial glands are present on the tail end. This gland is also known as the preen gland or the oil gland. It is present in the majority of the birds. It is located between the fourth caudal vertebra and pygostyle. It releases oil-like secretion which helps in the waterproofing of the feathers.
So, the answer is ‘a) On either side of the vagina in humans'.

Note: Bartholin glands are essential in providing the lubrication of the vagina. If it is removed it may lead to a serious infection in the vagina. Bartholin gland can cause vulvar cancer also which is rare. One can unclog the Bartholin gland easily by sitting in the hot water bath, which will help in the removal of the cyst formed and hence unclogging it.