Day theatre procedure
About this service
Bartholin's cyst or abscess surgery, known as marsupialisation, is a procedure offered in Windhoek to treat a swollen or infected Bartholin's gland near the vaginal opening. When one of these glands becomes blocked, it can form a painful cyst or abscess that keeps recurring if not properly treated. Marsupialisation creates a small permanent opening so the gland can continue to drain, reducing the chance of the problem coming back.
At Eastgate Clinic this procedure is performed in our on-site day theatre, with consultation and follow-up managed by your GP in our rooms. Your doctor will advise on the best treatment for your symptoms.
What to expect
- A consultation and examination in our rooms to assess the swelling
- A short procedure under anaesthesia in our on-site day theatre, arranged promptly if the abscess is painful
- A small stitch or catheter may be placed to keep the new opening drained
- Some tenderness and swelling during the first days of healing is expected
- Follow-up appointment to check healing and reduce the chance of recurrence
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A painful lump near the vaginal opening
- Swelling that makes sitting or walking uncomfortable
- A recurring Bartholin's cyst or abscess
- Signs of infection such as redness, warmth or fever near the swelling
- A cyst confirmed by examination that isn't settling on its own
Frequently asked questions
What is marsupialisation of a Bartholin's cyst?
The cyst is opened and its edges are stitched to the surrounding skin to make a small permanent pouch. This lets the gland keep draining, which is why it is less likely to come back than simply draining the cyst.
Can a Bartholin's abscess be treated with antibiotics instead of surgery?
Antibiotics alone rarely clear an established abscess because the pus needs to drain. Warm baths can help a small cyst, but a painful or growing swelling usually needs a procedure.
How long is recovery after Bartholin's cyst marsupialisation?
Most people are back to normal activities within a few days, with the opening fully healed in a couple of weeks. Warm sitz baths and keeping the area clean help it heal.
For referring doctors
This procedure can be booked in Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your bartholin's cyst/abscess surgery (marsupialisation)?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.