Gynaecological procedures and examinations

Cysts can form anywhere in the body. They are a bladder-like formation usually separated from surrounding tissues by a sac and filled with fluid. Generally, cysts are benign and do not require medical intervention, but they can sometimes interfere with daily life and require surgical treatment. Bartholin’s gland is located in the area of the vaginal opening and is responsible for lubrication of the vagina. When this gland becomes blocked, a cyst forms, which is called a Bartholin’s cyst. These cysts are relatively common and often small and painless. However, sometimes they become painful or inflamed, and surgical removal or drainage of the cyst may be necessary.

Causes

The formation of Bartholin’s cyst is not related to age or other health indicators. The cyst forms when the gland becomes blocked – sometimes due to infection or injury to the area. Sometimes, Bartholin’s cyst can also become infected, and in this case, an abscess forms. In the case of an abscess, the usual procedure is to open the abscess because surgical removal of the cyst is usually not possible in the presence of inflammation.

At Confido, we perform surgical treatment of Bartholin’s cyst both under local and general anesthesia.

Before the operation

Preparation for the operation does not require any special measures from you. If the operation is performed under general anesthesia, please follow the instructions sent by the operation department! You can familiarize yourself with the checklist for those coming for surgery HERE.

During the operation

The operation lasts 60 minutes, and we perform it both under local and general anesthesia. During the operation, the doctor makes a small incision in the mucous membrane through which the cyst with its surrounding sac is removed. Sometimes, the cyst opens during the operation, in which case the fluid inside the cyst is allowed to drain out, and the remaining capsule or sac is removed. Hemostasis is performed in the surgical area to stop bleeding using electricity, and the wound is sutured in layers. Resorbable suture material is used for Bartholin’s cyst surgery, and there is no need to remove the sutures later, as the material dissolves on its own.

After the operation

After the operation, you will be taken to the recovery room, and if there are no complications, you can go home after 2 to 6 hours, provided you feel well.

Possible complications

• Bleeding from the wound
• Formation of a hematoma or bruising in the operated area – sometimes repeated surgery may be necessary, during which the hematoma is opened, the bleeding point that caused the hematoma is identified, and the area is sutured or cauterized.
• Inflammation that requires antibiotic treatment
• Formation of a purulent infection or abscess – usually requires surgical opening of the abscess
• Scarring

After surgery and recovery

Depending on the complexity of the surgery, your doctor will explain postoperative recommendations. You may experience mild discomfort or pain in the area for a few days after surgery. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used if necessary. Sometimes, the doctor may also prescribe postoperative antibiotics. Slight spotting from the surgical area is expected for a couple of weeks. The intimate area should be washed daily with warm running water; strong soaps or shower gels should not be used.

Recovery usually takes 2-4 weeks, and during this time, it is not recommended to:

• Have sexual intercourse
• Use tampons or menstrual cups