Day theatre procedure
About this service
Haematocolpos drainage is surgical drainage of trapped menstrual blood behind an obstructed hymen, a condition that typically presents in teenage girls who have started menstruating but have no visible outflow, and it is available in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic. When the hymen is imperforate or blocked, menstrual blood cannot leave the body and builds up, causing cyclical pain and a lower abdominal swelling. Drainage relieves this build-up and restores normal menstrual flow.
The procedure is carried out in our on-site day theatre under general anaesthesia. Your doctor will assess the swelling and confirm the diagnosis before advising on surgical drainage.
What to expect
- An examination, often with ultrasound, to confirm the diagnosis
- General anaesthesia with an anaesthetist, as most patients are teenagers and the area is tender
- A small opening in the hymen lets the trapped blood drain, and the edges are stitched to keep it open
- Some spotting or discharge afterwards is normal for a short time
- Your doctor will advise on follow-up to confirm normal menstrual flow
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Monthly cyclical lower abdominal pain without a period starting
- A lower abdominal swelling or mass in a teenage girl
- No menstrual periods despite normal puberty development
- A suspected or diagnosed imperforate hymen
- Pain that recurs on a monthly cycle without visible bleeding
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of haematocolpos?
A teenager who has developed normally but never had a period, with monthly lower abdominal pain, a swelling low in the tummy and sometimes difficulty passing urine, is the typical picture. A bluish bulge at the vaginal opening is often seen on examination.
Is haematocolpos drainage a big operation?
No. A small opening is made in the blocked hymen under general anaesthesia so the trapped blood can drain, and the edges are stitched to keep it open. You usually go home the same day.
Will periods be normal after haematocolpos drainage?
Once the blockage is opened, menstrual blood flows normally and the cyclical pain settles. Your doctor will check at follow-up that the opening remains clear and that periods have established.
For referring doctors
Eastgate Clinic's day theatre in Windhoek is equipped for haematocolpos drainage, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided on site. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your haematocolpos drainage?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.