Day theatre procedure
About this service
Vulval or vaginal abscess drainage in Windhoek is a day-surgery procedure that drains an abscess of the vulva or the entrance to the vagina, usually caused by a blocked gland or infection. This can cause significant pain, swelling and difficulty sitting or walking comfortably, and drainage is often needed because antibiotics alone may not clear a collection of pus.
The procedure relieves pressure and pain and allows the infection to settle more effectively. Eastgate Clinic performs vulval and vaginal abscess drainage in our on-site day theatre with prompt attention and discretion.
What to expect
- An examination to locate the abscess and check whether it involves the Bartholin's gland
- Local or general anaesthesia depending on how large and how tender the abscess is
- The pus is released through a small incision, sometimes with the edges stitched open to prevent re-collection
- Antibiotics afterwards, with swelling and tenderness easing over a few days
- A review to confirm the infection has cleared and to discuss preventing a recurrence
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A painful, swollen lump at the vaginal entrance or on the vulva
- Pain when sitting or walking due to a vulval swelling
- Fever alongside vulval or vaginal pain and swelling
- A tender lump that has developed suddenly and is worsening
- Suspected Bartholin's or other vulval abscess needing drainage
Frequently asked questions
Is a Bartholin's abscess the same as a vulval abscess?
A Bartholin's abscess is the most common kind of vulval abscess, forming in a gland at the vaginal entrance. Other vulval abscesses arise from blocked hair follicles or skin infection. All are drained in a similar way.
Will a vulval abscess come back after drainage?
It can, especially Bartholin's abscesses. Where the doctor expects this, the opening may be stitched open or a small catheter left in for a while to create a lasting drainage channel and lower the chance of recurrence.
How quickly can a vulval or vaginal abscess be drained at Eastgate Clinic?
Contact the clinic directly and describe your symptoms. Because a painful abscess needs prompt treatment, theatre time is usually found within a day, and sooner if you have a fever or spreading redness.
For referring doctors
This procedure can be booked in Eastgate Clinic's 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 vulval or vaginal abscess drainage?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.