Treatment for Bartholins Abscess

Treatment for Bartholins Abscess

Bartholins Gland Marsupialisation would be recommended if it is found that there is a formation of a Bartholin’s Abscess.

Bartholins Gland is a mucous secreting gland and is found on the posterior of the vagina. The main function of this gland is to create mucous that helps lubricate the vagina during a sexual intercourse. The mucous enters the vagina by means of tiny openings. For some reason, if these openings get blocked, the liquid builds up forming a cyst.

If the cyst gets infected, an abscess known as the Bartholin’s Abscess is formed. If cracked, the abscess would burst through the skin releasing pus.

The most common symptom that is seen is swelling near the back/opening of the vagina. This could be a cyst or it could be the Bartholin’s Abscess which is filled with pus. Other symptoms that are seen include fever and pain with sexual intercourse.

The doctor would usually recommend a pelvic examination to be done. Older women may be advised to undergo a biopsy to rule out the possibility of a tumor. If there is any vaginal discharge, it would be sent to the lab for analysis.

If the lump is not very huge, soaking in warm water provides relief to the patient. Repeating this practice for 3 or 4 times a day causes the abscess to open on its own and drains out the pus. However, since the openings are very small, the pores often close quickly even before all the liquid is drained out.

Hence a small surgical cut would be recommended to help drain out all the fluid. This is done as an out-patient procedure and provides fast relief with a quick recovery.