ABOUT BARTHOLIN’S CYST TREATMENT
This procedure treats a Bartholin’s cyst through incision and drainage. A Bartholin’s cyst is a small fluid filled sac just inside the vagina. The cyst forms on the Bartholin’s gland which is a gland that produces fluid that lubriates the vagina, when the glands become blocked. The cyst ranges in size and generally varies between the size of a pea, to the size of marble. If the Bartholin’s cyst becomes infected, it is usually referred to as a Bartholin’s abscess and generally requires drainage.
Symptoms of a Bartholin’s cyst include discomfort when sitting, walking or having sexual intercourse, swelling, and the formation of a lump around the opening of the vagina.
A Bartholin’s cyst is usually harmless, but may need to be drained if it becomes painful or infected. There are a range of treatment options, including some home remedies. However, women often find the Bartholin’s cyst returns after a few months unless treated by a doctor. More permanent treatment options include balloon catheter insertion or marsupialization, both of which offer easy drainage to prevent the cyst from filling up with fluid. In some cases, the Bartholin’s gland will be removed completely.
Recommended for
- Bartholin’s cyst which is causing pain or embarrassment
TIME REQUIREMENTS
- Number of days in hospital: 1.
Overnight stay not required.
- Average length of stay abroad: 2 – 3 days.
It is usually safe to fly afterwards, but depending on the type of procedure, there may be a follow up visit required – e.g. to remove a drainage catheter.
HOW TO FIND QUALITY TREATMENT ABROAD
BEFORE BARTHOLIN’S CYST TREATMENT ABROAD
Ahead of an appointment for treatment, most doctors will recommend attempting to treat the cyst using non-invasive methods, chiefly soaking in warm water (a sitz bath). If the issue persists, the doctor will explore other treatment options.
HOW IS IT PERFORMED
There are a number of treatment options for a Bartholin’s cyst.
The doctor may perform a minor procedure at their practice whereby an incision is made in the cyst in which a catheter is inserted into and inflated. This procedure usually involves administering a local anesthetic or sedation. The catheter remains in place for between 2 to 6 weeks as the fluid is drained from the cyst.
Marsupialization is the cutting of the cyst and stitching the sides together in order to create a channel for the secretions to come through and to drain the fluid out.
If the cyst has become infected, then the patient may be prescribed with antibiotics, particularly if it has not drained properly.
Anesthesia
Local anesthetic.
Procedure duration
The Bartholin’s Cyst Treatment takes 30 to 60 minutes.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER BARTHOLIN’S CYST TREATMENT
Post procedure care
The doctor may recommend soaking the cyst in warm water several times a day. If there is a catheter inserted, patients should avoid sexual intercourse until it is removed. If the cyst is opened up with marsupialization, it may be advised to avoid sexual intercourse for 4 weeks.
Possible discomfort
Some mild discomfort is possible.
