Bartholin's Gland Marsupialization
A small, office-based procedure that forms a new drainage pathway for a recurrent Bartholin's cyst or abscess—aimed at comfort and prevention.
Bartholin's gland marsupialization is a minor surgical technique for recurrent cysts or abscesses of the Bartholin's gland. After opening the blocked duct and draining fluid, we suture the edges of the cyst wall to the skin to create a small, permanent opening. This new pathway helps the gland drain naturally and reduces the chance of the cyst coming back. The procedure is typically done with local anesthesia in the office.
Fast Facts About Marsupialization
Office-based procedure with local anesthesia
Creates a permanent opening to prevent re-blockage
Often chosen after repeat cysts or abscesses
Most visits take 20–40 minutes
Light activity the same day; pelvic rest for a short period
Who It May Help
- Recurrent Bartholin's cysts that refill after drainage
- Abscesses that return after Word catheter or incision & drainage
- Patients seeking a prevention-focused option
- Those without suspicion for a tumor (especially in patients over 40 we may send tissue for pathology)
How It Works
After numbing the area, we make a small incision to drain the cyst or abscess and remove any thickened secretions. The inner cyst wall is sutured to the outer skin edges, creating a pouch-like opening (the "marsupialized" tract). This new opening allows ongoing drainage and helps the duct heal in an open position so fluid does not collect again.
Candidacy & Alternatives
Good candidates have bothersome, recurrent cysts or abscesses. We may defer marsupialization during active, severe infection until initial drainage and antibiotics improve tenderness. Alternatives include Word catheter placement (a small balloon left for several weeks), simple incision and drainage (I&D) for first-time abscesses, sclerotherapy in select cases, or complete gland excision in the operating room for persistent recurrences or when cancer is a concern. We tailor the choice to your symptoms, recurrence history, and exam.
Marsupialization vs. Other Options
Marsupialization
- Creates a permanent opening; lower recurrence than I&D alone
- Office-based with local anesthesia
- Short recovery with pelvic rest
- Stitches dissolve on their own
Word Catheter
- Balloon catheter keeps tract open for ~2–4 weeks
- Often used for first abscess episodes
- May be less comfortable while in place
- Recurrence risk variable; quick office placement
Incision & Drainage (I&D)
- Rapid relief of pain/pressure
- Higher recurrence if used alone
- Useful when severe tenderness limits longer procedures
- Typically combined with antibiotics if infection present
What to Expect
You'll feel pressure and tugging but minimal sharp pain with local anesthesia. After drainage and suturing, we place a small dressing. Expect mild soreness, swelling, and a small amount of blood-tinged discharge for a few days. Warm sitz baths can ease discomfort and support healing. Use pads (not tampons) and plan pelvic rest—no intercourse, swimming, or hot tubs—until cleared, usually ~1–2 weeks.
Safety & Considerations
Common effects include localized soreness, light bleeding, and discharge as the tract heals. Uncommon risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, or recurrence. If there is significant inflammation, we may prescribe antibiotics. In patients over 40 or with atypical features, we may send tissue for pathology to exclude rare tumors. Most people return to normal daily activities within a day, avoiding friction or pressure on the area until comfortable.
Before Your Visit
- ✓Avoid shaving/waxing the area right before your appointment
- ✓Wear comfortable underwear and bring a sanitary pad
- ✓Ask about taking an over-the-counter pain reliever 30–60 minutes prior
- ✓Plan for 1–2 weeks of pelvic rest after the procedure
- ✓Tell us about allergies, anticoagulants, and prior procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is marsupialization painful?
We use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. You may feel pressure or tugging during the procedure and mild soreness afterward, which sitz baths and over-the-counter pain relievers usually manage well.
2What is the downtime?
Most people resume light activity the same day. Expect 1–3 days of soreness, with pelvic rest for about 1–2 weeks or as directed. Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and intercourse until cleared.
3Will it prevent the cyst from coming back?
Marsupialization lowers the chance of recurrence by creating a permanent drainage opening. While no option eliminates risk entirely, recurrence rates are generally lower than with I&D alone.
4Do I need antibiotics?
Antibiotics are not always required. We prescribe them if signs of infection are present or based on your exam and history.
5Will this affect sexual function?
Once healed, most people notice improved comfort because pressure from recurrent cysts is relieved. The small opening typically becomes unobtrusive. Let us know if you have concerns during healing.
6What follow-up is needed?
We'll schedule a short follow-up to check healing and discuss prevention tips. If symptoms return, contact us quickly—early care often prevents larger recurrences.
Relief From Recurrent Bartholin's Cysts
We'll confirm candidacy, perform a comfortable, office-based marsupialization, and guide you through aftercare to reduce recurrence.
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