Alternate Names : Abscess – Bartholin’s, Infected Bartholin’s gland
Definition
Bartholin’s abscess is the buildup of pus that forms a lump (swelling) in one of the Bartholin’s glands, which are located on each side of the vaginal opening.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
A Bartholin’s abscess forms when a small opening (duct) from the gland gets blocked. Fluid in the gland builds up and may become infected. Fluid may build up over many years before an abscess occurs.
Often the abscess appears quickly over several days and become very hot and swollen. Activity that puts pressure on the vulva, and walking and sitting, may cause excruciating pain.
Pictures & Images
Female reproductive anatomy
External structures of the female reproductive anatomy include the labium minora and majora, the vagina and the clitoris. Internal structures include the uterus, ovaries and cervix.
-
Bartholin’s abscess : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
-
Bartholin’s abscess : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
-
Bartholin’s abscess : Treatment
Review Date : 8/1/2008
Reviewed By : Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Maternal & Child Health Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine; Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
