Surgery of the Bartholin gland is performed for painful cysts or abscesses at the vaginal opening, when symptoms disrupt daily life or recur despite treatment.
The Bartholin glands are located on both sides of the entrance to the vagina and are responsible for secreting the mucus that moistens the vagina. When the duct of one gland becomes blocked, secretion is retained in the gland and a Bartholin gland cyst can form - most often a painless but uncomfortable swelling.
If an infection develops in the closed cyst, the cyst can turn into a Bartholin gland abscess - a painful, often red and tender swelling that can seriously hinder walking, sitting and sexual intercourse.
Surgery is not performed for every small cyst, but it is considered when the complaints significantly impair quality of life or the changes recur.
After Bartholin gland surgery there is most often a significant reduction or complete disappearance of pain and discomfort, and a visible improvement in the quality of everyday functioning - walking, sitting and sexual activity. With a correctly chosen and performed method, especially marsupialisation, the risk of the complaints recurring in the future is also reduced.
Nevertheless, in a small number of patients the cyst can develop again, so it is important to monitor the condition regularly and contact the doctor in good time if new complaints arise.
For a Bartholin gland abscess, surgical opening and drainage most often very quickly reduce pain and pressure.
Procedures such as marsupialisation create a new permanent opening of the gland and thereby reduce the possibility of re-blockage and the formation of a new cyst.
For suspicious or atypical changes, surgical treatment makes it possible to send the tissue for histopathological analysis to fully clarify the findings.
The gynaecologist examines the area in detail, takes a swab if needed and explains to you where the cyst/abscess is located, which type of procedure is recommended and what the goals are.
In consultation with the anaesthetist, local infiltration anaesthesia, regional or brief general anaesthesia is planned, depending on the size of the change and your complaints.
For an abscess, a small incision is made on the most prominent part of the abscess and the content is drained. For a cyst, depending on the agreement, marsupialisation can be performed - after the cyst is emptied, the edges of the incision are stitched to the surrounding skin to create a permanent opening.
If needed, a short-term drain or gauze is placed to allow the remaining content to drain out.
The exact instructions depend on whether the procedure is performed under local or general anaesthesia, but as a rule they include:
Note:
You will receive all specific instructions individually, tailored to your state of health.
After the procedure it is normal to experience mild pain or discomfort in the area of the procedure for some time, especially when sitting or walking. This usually settles well with ordinary analgesics that your doctor will recommend.
In such situations contact us as soon as possible, and if you are not sure whether it is needed immediately, please call — together we will decide on the next step.
Swelling and pain in the area of the Bartholin gland often come on suddenly and can be very unpleasant. In such a situation it is important to have a gynaecology team that reacts quickly, clearly explains the treatment options and guides you through the whole process, from the first consultation to full recovery.
The procedure is performed by specialists in gynaecology in cooperation with experienced anaesthetists, in controlled conditions and with the anaesthesia tailored to your general condition and findings.
A gynaecological examination, ultrasound and, if needed, taking swabs are arranged at short notice, so that a clear treatment plan can be reached as soon as possible.
We apply methods that aim to resolve the problem effectively, with as little damage to the surrounding tissue as possible and a faster recovery.
Before and after the procedure you receive written and verbal instructions, with the option of additional consultations in case of any uncertainties or new complaints.
The price of Bartholin's gland surgery at Cito Polyclinic is 70-200 EUR and includes the surgical procedure in controlled conditions, anaesthetic monitoring and postoperative care.
Before the procedure, a gynaecological examination and the necessary diagnostic work-up are carried out, which are charged separately, depending on the findings and individual indication.
You can get the exact price of the procedure and the first available appointment straight away by calling +385 21 457 800 or by sending a message via the contact form.
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Subspecialist in Gynecological Endocrinology and Human Reproduction
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Subspecialist in Gynecological Endocrinology and Human Reproduction
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Subspecialist in Gynecological Endocrinology and Human Reproduction
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Find answers to common questions about this service
In cases of recurrence, large cysts, abscesses or failure of conservative treatment. An acute abscess often requires incision and drainage.
Marsupialization creates a permanent drainage opening; excision removes the entire gland. It is performed under local or general anesthesia.
Recovery is 1–3 weeks with hygiene, sitz baths and analgesics. Sexual intercourse should be avoided until healing.
Recurrences are possible; proper technique, drainage and follow-ups reduce the risk.
