Bartholinitis
Bartholinitis in women is an inflammation of the gland that is located at the entrance to the vagina. Many people are afraid to go to the doctor after hearing something about gynecological diseases, but in fact it is not scary, but important. If the problem is neglected, an abscess may form, which will have to be removed by surgery. But in the early stages, everything is much easier to treat.
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Provoking factors
Certain situations or conditions can increase the risk of developing bartholinitis:
- Decreased immunity. The body becomes more vulnerable to infections during stress, chronic illnesses or after illnesses
- Sexually transmitted infections. Sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea or chlamydia often cause inflammation of the gland
- Microtraumas in the vulva. Cracks, abrasions or other injuries after intimacy, hygiene procedures or the use of inappropriate hair removal products can become an "entrance gate" for bacteria.
- Hormonal changes. Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as during pregnancy, menopause or hormonal disorders, can weaken the body's defenses
- Lack of hygiene. The use of aggressive products for the intimate area, the occasional change of underwear or pads creates a favorable environment for the reproduction of bacteria
Forms of Bartholinitis
Bartholinitis can manifest itself in several forms, each of which has its own characteristics.
If left untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding tissue, causing an abscess, a formation filled with pus.
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Acute Bartholinitis
In this form, inflammation begins suddenly and is accompanied by pronounced symptoms. The main sign is pain in the area of the gland, which intensifies when walking, sitting or during intimacy.
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Chronic Bartholinitis
In this form, the symptoms are less pronounced. Inflammation proceeds with periods of exacerbation and remission. The patient may complain of mild discomfort, periodic pain or slight swelling in the area of the gland. However, with each new exacerbation, the condition may worsen, and the inflammation becomes more difficult to treat.
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Bartholin gland cyst
A cyst forms if the duct of the gland is blocked, but the infection does not develop. In this case, fluid accumulates inside the gland, forming a painless or slightly painful lump.
Treatment of Bartholinitis
Conservative treatment
In the early stages of bartholinitis, when inflammation is not accompanied by the formation of an abscess, drug therapy is prescribed. Antibiotics are the basis of treatment, especially if the infection is caused by a bacterial pathogen.
An important addition is the use of warm compresses and sitz baths with antiseptics (for example, a solution of chlorhexidine or potassium permanganate). This helps to improve the outflow of secretions and speeds up the healing process.
If the inflammation is accompanied by fever and general malaise, antipyretics may be prescribed. For severe pain, your doctor may recommend topical pain medications, such as ointments or anesthetic gels.
Surgical treatment
If the inflammation progresses to the stage of abscess formation, surgery is required. The operation is performed under local anesthesia and consists of opening the abscess and installing a drain to remove the pus. After that, the cavity is washed with antiseptics, and the patient is prescribed a course of antibiotics to prevent reinfection.
Marsupialization is used to treat recurrent Bartholinitis or large Bartholin gland cysts. This is a method in which an artificial duct is formed at the site of cyst opening for the outflow of secretions. Such surgery reduces the risk of recurrence of inflammation.
In rare cases, if recurrences of the disease occur frequently and do not respond to other treatments, complete removal of the Bartholin gland (extirpation) may be recommended. This is an extreme step, which is used only when other approaches are ineffective.
Hormonal and restorative therapy
In postmenopausal women, when inflammation is associated with tissue atrophy due to a lack of hormones, estrogen drugs may be prescribed. They help repair the mucous membrane and reduce the risk of re-inflammation.
In addition, to strengthen the immune system and speed up recovery, it is recommended to take vitamin complexes and immunomodulators. Your doctor may also advise you to adjust your diet and lifestyle to reduce your exposure to triggers.
General information
Symptoms of Bartholinitis
Symptoms of Bartholinitis depend on its form, but there are common manifestations:
- Pain and discomfort. Pain is localized in the lower third of the vulva, worsens with walking, sitting or sexual activity
- Swelling and redness. The area of the gland becomes inflamed, the skin may be hot to the touch
- Discharge from the duct of the gland. When pressed, purulent or mucous secretion is sometimes released
- Fever. In acute inflammation, the temperature may rise to 38–39°C
- General deterioration of health. Weakness, a decrease in performance and a feeling of brokenness appear
- Cyst or abscess formation. On palpation, a dense or elastic lump can be found in the area of the gland
If you are facing symptoms of bartholinitis, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. The K+31 clinic employs experienced specialists who are ready to choose an effective treatment. Call, sign up, and look for current prices on our website.
Answers to popular questions
We have collected frequently asked questions to dispel doubts and help you better understand the problem of bartholinitis.
Can I play sports if I have bartholinitis?
In acute bartholinitis, physical activity is contraindicated. Sports and exercise can increase discomfort, provoke pain and contribute to the spread of inflammation. During the treatment period, it is better to limit the load and give the body time to recover. After full recovery, you can return to your usual activity, but gradually.
Can Bartholinitis be treated at home?
Self-treatment of Bartholinitis is unacceptable, especially in the presence of purulent inflammation or severe pain. Home methods, such as warming or the use of herbs, can worsen the condition by causing the infection to spread. Even if the symptoms seem mild, it is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment.
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What is bartholinitis and causes of its occurrence
Bartholinitis is an inflammation of the Bartholin gland, which is located in the area of the entrance to the vagina and is responsible for the production of lubrication. The disease occurs when the duct of the gland becomes blocked and an infection begins to develop in it. The disease can occur in women of any age, but most often it is faced by women of reproductive age
Bartholinitis develops due to an infection that penetrates the duct of the Bartholin gland. The main causative agents of the disease are bacteria, such as staphylococci, streptococci, E. coli, as well as sexually transmitted microorganisms, such as gonococci and chlamydia.
Infection can enter the duct of the gland through microcracks or damage to the skin and mucous membrane of the vulva. Often this is due to non-compliance with hygiene rules or injuries that occur during intimacy, hair removal or wearing too tight underwear. If the duct of the gland is blocked, the secretion cannot be secreted freely, which creates a favorable environment for the reproduction of bacteria and provokes inflammation.