A Bartholin’s gland abscess is the product of a blockage in the glands located either side of the vaginal opening. Initially the blockage results in a cyst, if that cyst remains untreated and infection sets in then an abscess results. Typically, patients with Bartholin’s gland abscesses experience significant pain in the location of the affected area as well as noticeable swelling and redness. A vaginal discharge may also occur, particularly if the root cause of the problem is a sexually transmitted disease.

Procedure information
Treatment of cysts depends on several factors such as their size, the degree of pain they cause, the age of the sufferer and whether they are infected or not. Typically, uninfected cysts are treated with regular sitz baths (a method of bathing in which the patient’s hips and buttocks are submerged in salt-water) and pain medication.

Where cysts have become infected and an abscess has resulted, the patient may require surgery. There are a number of options for this and depending on the specifics on the individual’s condition a single procedure or a combination of procedures may be necessary. Serious cases of Bartholin’s gland abscess will almost certainly require incision and drainage, after which the remaining cyst tissue may be cauterized with silver nitrate to prevent it from reoccurring.

If the problem is a persistent one, physicians may recommend a procedure known as marsupialization. This operation involves the creation of an opening in the Bartholin’s gland by means of slit, which is strategically sutured, allowing the normal flow of the gland’s mucous secretions.

Recovery time
Recovery time from Bartholin’s gland abscess depends on the procedure performed but typically a patient undergoing marsupialization can expect to be discharged from the hospital within 48 hours of the operation. Following that, normal activities may be resumed within a couple of days although intercourse and certain exercises are best avoided. Complete recovery and resumption of all physical activities can be expected in three to four weeks.