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Bartholin's abscess   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Abscess - Bartholin's; Infected Bartholin's gland

Definition:

An accumulation of purulent fluid that forms a lump (swelling) in one of the mucus producing bartholin glands which are located on each side of the vaginal opening at the inner-most part of the labia. This swelling is hot, sensitive, and painful.

Causes and Risks

Bartholin's abscesses form when ducts (small drainage openings) to the Bartholin's glands get blocked. Secretions in the glands build 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 pressure against the vulva may cause such excruciating pain that even walking and sitting seem almost impossible.

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