Bartholin’s Abscess Surgery
Treatment involves safely draining the abscess to relieve pain and reduce infection, often alongside measures to help prevent recurrence. The procedure is usually straightforward, with a focus on prompt relief, comfort, and supporting a smooth recovery.
A Bartholin’s abscess is a collection of pus in the Bartholin gland, typically requiring drainage.
Most common first-line procedure
Procedure:
• Performed under local or general anaesthesia
• Patient in lithotomy position
• Area cleaned with antiseptic
• A small incision (≈1–2 cm) made on the inner aspect of the labia minora, over the abscess
• Pus drained and cavity irrigated with saline
• Loculations broken down using forceps
• Swab may be taken for culture
Key point:
• Simple I&D alone has a higher recurrence rate, so often combined with catheter placement
Preferred definitive treatment.
Marsupialisation
Used for recurrent cysts/abscesses
Procedure:
• Performed under general or regional anaesthesia
• Abscess opened and drained
• Edges of the cyst wall are sutured to the skin edges
• Creates a permanent open pouch
Outcome:
• Forms a new drainage pathway
• Lower recurrence compared to simple I&D
Book Consultation
Booking a consultation is simple and straightforward. During your appointment, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms in a comfortable, confidential setting, receive a thorough assessment, and explore personalised treatment options designed to help you feel your best.