Bartholin’s abscess

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Bartholin’s abscess

Definition

Bartholin's abscess involves an accumulation of pus that forms a lump (swelling) in one of the mucus-producing Bartholin's glands, which are located on each side of the vaginal opening at the innermost part of the labia. This swelling is hot to the touch, sensitive, and painful.

Alternative Names

Abscess - Bartholin's; Infected Bartholin's gland

Causes

A Bartholin's abscess forms when a duct (small drainage opening) from the gland gets blocked. Secretions in the gland builds up and may become infected. Many different types of bacteria can cause the infection, including the bacteria that cause gonorrhea. However, these infected glands are usually not caused by a sexually transmitted infection.

Often the abscess can appear and become full-blown within 2 or 3 days. Any activity that puts pressure against the vulva, even walking and sitting, may cause excruciating pain.

Review Date: 7/19/2004
Reviewed By: Peter Chen, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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