A Bartholin’s abscess can occur when one of the Bartholin’s glands, located on either side of the vaginal opening, becomes infected. When the gland is blocked, a cyst will usually form. If the cyst becomes infected, it can lead to a Bartholin’s abscess.
The Bartholin’s glands (greater vestibular glands) are located deep to the posterior aspect of the labia majora. Their openings are located on either side of the vaginal orifice, within the vestibule of the vagina, just below the hymenal ring. They secrete mucus to lubricate the vagina.
Causes a Bartholin’s abscess
The Bartholin glands sit on either side of the opening of the vagina. They provide lubrication to the vaginal mucosa.
It is believed to be caused by:
- Bacteria, such as E. coli,
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as chlamydia or gonorrhea
These are the main traceable causes of the abscess. The infiltration of the gland by bacteria shows tenderness, redness and swelling of the gland. If left unchecked for a long period, it may block the passage of the fluid, leading to fluid accumulation and other secondary infections before abscess.
What are the symptoms?
- The symptoms are not many unlike the other related abscess, Bartholin’s abscess usually causes lump formation on one side of the vagina (or under the skin).
- Depending on the infection span in the body, meanwhile, it generally causes pain when using the place (vagina) or perhaps when walking, running or other forms of exercise.
- Sex becomes unpleasure and nightmare, the wall of the vagina aches when cushions by the penis.
- Unusual fever may also accompany the abscess. While around the abscess area becomes swollen, red and warm when touched.
What are the risk factors for Bartholin’s Abscess?
Bartholin’s cysts characteristically occur in nulliparous women of child-bearing age. Other risk factors include:
- Personal history of Bartholin’s cyst
- Sexually active (STIs can cause a Bartholin’s cyst or abscess)
- History of vulval surgery
Possible Complications of Bartholin’s Abscess
To every infection, there is a high possibility of emerging into a life-threatening if left unchecked, the same has seen in Bartholin’s Abscess. Unattended condition of Bartholin’s Abscess can get into the bloodstream where it causes septicemia. This condition is dangerous because the infection can be carried throughout your whole body.
What are the treatment measures for Bartholin’s Abscess?
Often than not, most cases of Bartholin’s abscess demands draining (withdrawal of the fluid). However, the recurring of the condition can lead to marsupialization or complete removal of the gland (this is rare)
- Surgical drainage
- Marsupialization: This procedure prevents possible recurring of Bartholin’s abscess
- Gland removal: this only recommended if the abscess recurs after marsupialization, although, removing the gland isn’t so common.
- Antibiotics: This only attacks the bacteria present in the gland, however, there is a specific medication that can only be prescribed by a doctor.
Our advice at ALTH
In term with our mission, hiding your condition is not only dangerous to you but as well, to your linage, you are therefore counsel to CONSULT US as at when there is strange changes, because, early consultation prevent any unforeseen complication.
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