The two Bartholins glands lie next to the entrance to

the vagina. They make a small amount of mucus-like

fluid.

Marsupialization
of a Bartholins cyst
or abscess

A cyst (a fluid-filled swelling) sometimes develops

when a duct that drains the fluid from a Bartholins
gland becomes blocked. The cyst can become
infected, and may then develop into an abscess.
Treatment is not always required. If you have a small
cyst that causes no symptoms and does not become
infected, then it may be best simply to leave it alone.
(Do not assume a small lump is a Bartholins cyst - a
Bartholins abscess will usually need treatment as it
can be very painful.) However, always report a lump
in the area around your vagina (vulval area) to your
doctor.
Marsupialization is the traditional treatment for a
Bartholins cyst or abscess. It is performed under a
general anaesthetic. A small cut (incision) is made
into the cyst or abscess just inside the entrance to the
vagina. Any fluid or pus drains out.
A course of antibiotics may be prescribed if pus is
drained from the abscess. However antibiotics are not
always required.

The procedure is performed as a day case and you

can usually resume your normal activities in 2-3 days.
You should not drive for 24 hours after a general
anaesthetic. If you require a sickness certificate
please ask the nursing staff before you leave the
hospital.
You may experience bleeding/pus from the incision.
This is quite normal and many continue for up to ten
days after the procedure.
If the bleeding becomes heavy or the oozing is smelly
or offensive you should see your GP or practice
nurse.
It is common to experience some discomfort after
treatment - you can take regular painkillers.
Please contact gynaecology pre-assessment (during
office hours) if you need any further information:
Tel. 020 7794 0500 extension 38523
At all other times, contact ward 5 East B:
Tel. 020 7830 2745
Please feel free to discuss this leaflet with any
member of the ward staff before your discharge
home.

If you would like a large print or audio version

of this information, please ask a member of
staff.
Gynaecology department /
Patient information programme 2009 [review: April 2012]
www.royalfree.nhs.uk