Symptoms of bartholinitis and basic approaches to treating the disease

Bartholinitis is inflammation of the Bartholin gland.

These glands are located in the thickness of the lower third of the labia majora; their ducts open on the inner surface of the labia minora. The glands produce mucus necessary to moisturize the vestibule of the vagina.

Stimulation of mucus production occurs under the influence of estrogens (steroid female hormones produced by the follicular apparatus of the ovaries).

With age, the production of estrogen decreases significantly, as a result of which the secretion of the Bartholin glands decreases, which significantly increases the susceptibility of the gland to the development of the inflammatory process. When an infectious agent enters the mouth of the excretory duct, canalicular bartholinitis develops.

The incidence of bartholinitis among the female population is 15%, most of them are between the ages of 20 and 30 years. This disease does not occur in children and elderly women, since in children the gland is not sufficiently developed, and in postmenopausal women changes in the structure of the gland are observed.

The following factors contribute to the development of bartholinitis:

• sexually transmitted infectious diseases of the genital organs, for example, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, chlamydia and others;
• inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system (vulvovaginitis, endometritis, etc.);
• vaginal bacteriosis, changes in vaginal microflora;
• immune disorders;
• hypo- or vitamin deficiency;
• failure to comply with personal hygiene rules;
• wearing tight underwear.

Depending on the course of the pathological process, bartholinitis is divided into acute and chronic forms.

The acute form of the disease is characterized by severe symptoms, a rapid response to treatment, and complete elimination of the disease can be achieved within 3 to 4 weeks.

The chronic form of bartholinitis is characterized by alternating asymptomatic periods, during which nothing bothers the woman, with periods of exacerbation, during which symptoms characteristic of the acute form of the disease develop.

As a rule, the prognosis for bartholinitis is favorable. In most cases, complete recovery occurs; only a quarter of patients develop a chronic form of the disease, which is often accompanied by the formation of cysts.

To prevent the development of complications of the disease, when the first symptoms appear, you should immediately seek help from a specialist who will not only carry out all the necessary diagnostic measures, but also prescribe appropriate treatment.

In addition, timely consultation with a doctor will significantly reduce the risk of developing a chronic form of the disease. The most common complications of bartholinitis include abscesses, which can subsequently lead to deformation of the labia and the formation of vaginal fistulas.

Long-term chronic bartholinitis leads to the formation of a Bartholin gland cyst, which often suppurates.

Symptoms

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Initially, the disease manifests itself as redness of the labia minora, which a woman may not pay attention to. Then swelling of the mucous membrane appears, and a small nodule (the size of a grain to a pea) is formed in the area where the duct of the Bartholin gland exits.

As the nodule forms, a painful sensation appears, usually of a pulling nature. As swelling and pain increase, some discomfort appears when walking. There are also minor serous or purulent discharges and low-grade body temperature.

In some cases, a woman notices local itching.

The purulent form of bartholinitis is characterized by a pronounced clinical picture. There is a rapid growth of nodes in the thickness of the labia, a throbbing pain appears, which bothers the woman not only while walking, but also at rest.

It is also worth noting that it is not uncommon for pain to radiate to the groin area or thigh. Episodes of fever may occur, alternating with normal body temperature.

In addition, a woman may complain of decreased performance, general weakness, and decreased appetite.

Chronic bartholinitis is most often asymptomatic. In some cases, there is some discomfort in the vulva, dyspareunia (a feeling of discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse). With exacerbation of chronic bartholinitis, symptoms characteristic of the acute form of the disease appear. The following factors can provoke an exacerbation:

• menstruation;
• maintaining an active sex life;
• hypothermia;
• insufficient intake of essential vitamins and microelements into the woman’s body.

Diagnostics

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Diagnosis begins with the collection of characteristic complaints indicating the possibility of bartholinitis.

Next, the doctor proceeds with a gynecological examination, during which hyperemia (redness) of the labia minora is detected.

Upon palpation, a node is detected, upon pressing on which exudate of a serous or purulent nature is released. Also, these actions may be accompanied by the appearance or intensification of pain.

To identify the causative agent of the disease, microscopy and bacterial culture of the resulting exudate are performed. Bacterial culture allows not only to identify the microorganism that caused the development of bartholinitis, but also to establish its resistance to antibacterial agents.

As a rule, the culture results become known after 5–7 days from the start of the study of the material. Therefore, if necessary, PCR is performed - diagnostics, which allows one to quickly identify the causative agent of the disease.

The action of PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is to identify the genetic material of an infectious pathogen. This diagnostic method is highly specific, since it is it that allows one to determine the unique sequence of nucleotides characteristic of a particular pathogen.

When making a diagnosis, it is important to first make a differential diagnosis with the following diseases:

• boil of the labia;
• inflammation of the peri-vaginal tissue;
• atypical form of syphilitic chancre;
• Bartholin gland cancer.

Treatment

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Treatment consists of prescribing broad-spectrum antibacterial agents that affect both gram-positive and gram-negative microflora.

In case of mild inflammatory process, the use of local antibiotics is allowed, but in most cases the prescription of systemic antibacterial agents is required. In addition, local treatment with an antiseptic is carried out.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also used, which have antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. If there is an itching disease in the clinic, antihistamines are prescribed.

After the acute period of the disease has stopped, physiotherapeutic treatment is prescribed, the effect of which is aimed at preventing the development of relapse. The following types of physiotherapy are used:

• UHF (ultra-high frequency therapy) is a method of physiotherapeutic treatment based on the use of an ultra-high frequency electromagnetic field. This procedure eliminates pain, reduces tissue swelling, stimulates blood circulation, and fights inflammation;
• Amplipulse therapy is a method of physiotherapeutic treatment based on the use of sinusoidal modulated currents. It has an analgesic effect, the maximum development of which is achieved after the full course. In addition, it helps improve tissue trophism and also reduces swelling;
• Ozokerite therapy is a type of heat therapy, which consists of performing thermal applications using ozokerite. Ozokerite is a petroleum compound and contains paraffin, methane, ceresin, ethane, propylene, hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, resins and mineral oils. Ozocerite therapy is used in the treatment of chronic bartholinitis without exacerbation.

Surgical intervention is required when an abscess forms, as well as in the presence of a cyst, the formation of which is often observed in recurrent forms of bartholinitis. In this case, either removal or marsupialization of the Bartholin gland cyst is performed.

Marsupialization is a surgical procedure during which the pathological cavity is opened with the further formation of a new duct with an opening.

This operation allows you to restore the patency of the excretory duct of the gland, eliminate strictures (narrowings) that have arisen against the background of a long-term inflammatory process, as a result of which the function of the Bartholin gland is restored.

Medicines

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Initially, antibacterial agents are prescribed empirically, that is, until culture results are obtained, which provide information not only about the causative agent of the infectious process, but also about its sensitivity to antibacterial agents.

In this case, preference is given to broad-spectrum antibiotics, which have a detrimental effect on both gram-positive and gram-negative microflora.

The culture results make it possible to use etiotropic antibacterial therapy, which consists of targeted administration of antibiotics that are active against the identified pathogen.

Etiotropic prescription of antibacterial agents is considered the most rational, since this tactic allows you to choose the most effective drug with a narrow spectrum of action. When using antibacterial agents, it is important to carefully follow all doctor’s recommendations.

In no case should you independently adjust the dosage and frequency of taking the drug, since these actions can cause the development of microorganism resistance to the antibiotic used. While taking antibiotics, various side effects can develop. The most common side effects are from the gastrointestinal tract: nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea.

When choosing an antiseptic for topical use, you should be guided by the following principles:

• the product must have an active effect against pathogenic microorganisms;
• the product must be harmless to those tissues that are being treated, that is, it must not have toxic or destructive effects.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) inhibit the COX enzyme, resulting in disruption of the synthesis of prostaglandins from arachidonic acid.

Thanks to this mechanism of action, the following effects are achieved: antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic.

As a rule, with bartholinitis, the body temperature rises slightly, therefore, when choosing a drug from the NSAID group, preference is given to drugs that have pronounced anti-inflammatory and, to a lesser extent, antipyretic and analgesic effects.

If there is an itching disease in the clinic, antihistamines are prescribed, the action of which is aimed at eliminating this symptom.

Folk remedies

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To prevent the development of bartholinitis, you should follow the rules of personal hygiene, carefully choose underwear (it is recommended to give preference to natural materials), and exclude accidental unprotected sexual contacts. In addition, it is important to promptly diagnose and treat diseases of the genitourinary system.

At home, you can prepare a bath based on chamomile or oak bark. These plants have an anti-inflammatory effect, which plays a huge role in the treatment of bartholinitis. To prepare the bath, you must first prepare the plant material, from which you take 1 tablespoon and pour 1 glass of boiling water.

The resulting solution is infused for 30 minutes. After this, the infusion is poured into a bath filled with water at a comfortable temperature. It is recommended to take a bath 1 – 2 times a day for no more than 20 minutes. In addition, baths with the addition of antiseptic solutions are used, for example, with a weak solution of potassium permanganate (potassium permanganate).

Potassium permanganate is available in the form of crystals, which are intended to be dissolved in water, since crystals are not used in their original form. To prepare the bath, several crystals of potassium permanganate should be dissolved in water so that the liquid turns pale pink.

As a rule, it is recommended to use 10 crystals per 1 liter of water. The bright crimson color of the water should be alarming, since a high concentration of potassium permanganate can lead to burns.

In addition, in order to prevent the development of burns on the skin, the crystals should be thoroughly dissolved in water to prevent direct contact of the potassium permanganate crystals with the skin.

It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory effects, and also promotes the process of tissue regeneration. When treating bartholinitis, the ointment is applied to a gauze swab and applied to the sore spot. It is enough to perform this procedure once a day.

In addition, it is recommended to apply a gauze swab moistened with a hypertonic solution to the inflamed area. To prepare this solution you will need 3 tablespoons of salt, which dissolve in 1 liter of water at room temperature.

Apply a tampon soaked in the prepared solution to the inflamed area for 30 minutes. This procedure is performed 5–6 times throughout the day.

It is important to understand that all folk recipes do not exclude the use of medications, but only complement them. That is why it is extremely important not to self-medicate, including not to use traditional medicine without first consulting a doctor. When the first signs of the disease appear, you should immediately seek help from a doctor.

The information is for reference only and is not a guide to action. Do not self-medicate. At the first symptoms of the disease, consult a doctor.

Source: https://yellmed.ru/bolezni/bartolinit

Bartholinitis: symptoms, treatment. How to treat bartholinitis

Bartholin's paired glands are the largest of all the glands of the external female genitalia. They produce a viscous secretion, the function of which is to maintain an optimal level of moisture in the vagina. In the presence of certain conditions and factors, the Bartholin glands (or one of them) can become inflamed, resulting in a rather serious disease that is fraught with complications.

What is bartholinitis?

Bartholinitis is a disease characterized by the development of an inflammatory process in the Bartholin gland. Most often, the pathology is unilateral - that is, only one of the paired glands suffers.

Bartholinitis, depending on the nature of the course, manifests itself in the following forms:

• acute bartholinitis;
• chronic bartholinitis;
• false abscess (primary or secondary - when a previously formed cyst suppurates);
• true abscess.

Each of the listed varieties/stages of the disease has its own symptoms, characteristic features, and, accordingly, requires specific treatment.

Why does bartholinitis occur: the main reasons

The “culprits” of the disease are bacteria such as staphylococci, E. coli, Trichomonas, streptococci, candida, etc. Most often, bartholinitis begins as a result of pathogens entering the Bartholin gland as a result of human infection with sexually transmitted diseases: chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis.

There are a number of factors that significantly increase the risk of bartholinitis:

• Violation of personal hygiene rules.
• Various types of local microtraumas (excellent entry points for infection): scratching, abrasions, diaper rash.
• The presence in the body of chronic foci of advanced infection (pyelonephritis, caries) - in this case, pathogens enter the Bartholin gland through the lymph or blood flow.
• In some cases - operations affecting the genitourinary area, in case of non-compliance with sanitary standards during their implementation or in case of violation of the prescribed rules in the post-operative period.
• Frequent changes of sexual partners, which greatly increases the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases.
• Wearing underwear that is too tight - as a result, the normal outflow of secretions is disrupted, as a result of which it stagnates, thereby creating ideal conditions for the development of infection.
• A general decrease in immunity, vitamin deficiency, hypothermia - all this weakens the body's defenses, as a result, infectious agents, without encountering significant obstacles on the way, easily enter both the excretory duct of the gland and the gland itself.

Bartholinitis: symptoms

The very first symptom of bartholinitis in the vast majority of cases is inflammation of the excretory duct of the gland, located at the vestibule in the vagina. The symptom manifests itself through redness of the opening of this duct and the appearance of slight purulent mucous discharge.

In this case, the skin of the labia minora near the opening of the duct softens somewhat and upon palpation an enlargement of the excretory duct of the Bartholin gland is detected.

This is the stage preceding bartholinitis; the disease itself occurs when the duct is blocked, mucus thickens and accumulates, and, as a consequence, the inflammatory process transfers directly to the gland.

Symptoms of acute bartholinitis:

• Redness around the exit site of the excretory duct of the gland - while the patient’s well-being does not change.
• Palpation of the enlarged excretory duct of the gland - when pressed, a small amount of pus is released from it.

The inflammatory secretion, continuing to accumulate in the lobules of the gland due to blockage of the duct, soon leads to the formation of a false abscess. This condition manifests itself through the following symptoms:

• Suddenly, severe pain appears in the area of ​​the labia majora where the abscess has developed - it is so pronounced that the patient experiences real agony when walking, sitting and passing stool.
• Increase in body temperature to 39 degrees.
• Weakness, chills, weakness.

Among the local signs of a false abscess are the following:

• Swelling of the labia majora on the side where the pathology occurs - sometimes its size is so large that it completely blocks the entrance to the vagina.
• Redness of the skin over the swelling while maintaining its mobility.
• Painful sensations when palpating the affected labia majora.

If softening of the swelling is suddenly detected, this is a sign of the development of a true abscess with the formation of a purulent capsule in the cavity of the Bartholin gland.

Among the general symptoms of a true abscess of the Bartholin gland, the following manifestations are common:

• Deterioration of the patient's general condition, characterized by a rise in temperature to 40 degrees and an increase in the intensity of intoxication symptoms (weakness, headache, chills, dizziness).
• Increasing pain in the labia majora, on the part of which pathology has formed: the pain becomes throbbing and constant.
• An increase in leukocytes and ESR, detected by the results of laboratory blood tests.

Local signs of a true abscess are:

• pronounced swelling of the labia majora, the volume of which can be quite significant;
• bright red color of the skin above the swelling - while it is motionless;
• sharp painful sensations when palpating the swelling;
• in some cases, enlargement of the inguinal lymph nodes is observed.

Sometimes the abscess opens on its own, after which the patient’s well-being immediately improves: the temperature normalizes, swelling subsides, and pain disappears. However, you should not place too much hope on self-healing, and at the first signs of bartholinitis, seek qualified medical help.

As for chronic bartholinitis, this disease is characterized by a long course, accompanied by periods of exacerbation and subsidence. Relapses are usually caused by factors such as menstruation, hypothermia, etc.

And at this moment, the symptoms of chronic bartholinitis repeat the symptoms of acute bartholinitis. The most common result of untreated chronic bartholinitis is the appearance of a cyst of the large gland of the vestibule of the vagina.

Bartholinitis: how is the diagnosis made?

Determining bartholinitis does not cause any particular difficulties for the gynecologist. To make an accurate diagnosis, the following procedures may be necessary:

• interviewing the patient with details of her complaints and clarifying her medical history;
• examination on a chair, during which the color and size of the gland and tumor are assessed, and the presence of cysts is confirmed or denied;
• tests to detect sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS - all of these can be causes of bartholinitis, without eliminating which it is impossible to fully treat it;
• a smear on the bioflora is also done to identify the “initiators” of the pathology;
• general blood test - the level of leukocytes and ESR is detected;
• general urine test - to identify the risk of infection in the urinary system;
• bacterial culture - for growing the pathogen in a favorable environment and its subsequent identification in order to prescribe the most effective treatment.

Treatment of bartholinitis

Treatment of bartholinitis, depending on the characteristics of each specific case, can be carried out using the methods listed below and their combinations.

1. Local treatment. This method involves rest, cold (applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the inflamed area for 40 minutes), as well as the use of special ointments and compresses.
2. Physiotherapeutic treatment. Procedures can be started only after improvements in the patient’s condition (usually the third day from the onset of the disease), accompanied by a decrease in the intensity of signs of general intoxication - chills, nausea, headache, high fever, etc. The method in particular involves the use of magnetic therapy, laser and UHF.
3. Antibiotics. The cause of bartholinitis is always an infection - therefore, antibiotics cannot be avoided. Of course, these must be drugs to which the pathogen is sensitive. However, identifying the “culprits” through bacteriological culture can take a long time, and it is advisable to start treatment as early as possible. Therefore, most often at the first stage, the doctor prescribes broad-spectrum antibiotics. In addition, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are often additionally prescribed.
4. Surgical intervention. In some cases, surgery cannot be avoided. However, surgery cannot be limited to simply opening a cyst or abscess. The fact is that the tissues on which the pathology is formed tend to quickly stick together after dissection, as a result of which the duct becomes clogged again. Therefore, there are two options for performing a surgical operation:

• complete removal of the gland (extirpation);
• formation of an artificial duct of the Bartholin gland (marsupialization).

Is bartholinitis a cause of infertility?

Many people are concerned about whether bartholinitis can cause infertility. The disease itself is not an obstacle to conception. But a chronic pathological process in the vagina that causes regular inflammation of the Bartholin gland is often the true cause of the inability to get pregnant.

Why is bartholinitis dangerous during pregnancy?

Bartholinitis and its causes during pregnancy always have an adverse effect on the development of the fetus. And the protective mechanisms provided by nature, unfortunately, are not able to prevent the transmission of infection to the fetus by hematogenous means - that is, through the blood.

If the cause of bartholinitis is Trichomonas or gonococcus, then exposure of the fetus to these infections can cause disturbances in the development of various organs and systems of the fetus.

If a woman becomes ill with bartholinitis during the period from conception to the twenty-second week of pregnancy, then there is a high probability of spontaneous miscarriage or fetal death.

In cases where the expectant mother is diagnosed with this disease in the last stages, the risk of premature birth significantly increases, as well as infection of the child during the passage of the birth canal - the eyes, umbilical ring, and lungs are affected.

Bartholinitis: prevention

Naturally, like any disease, bartholinitis is easier to prevent than to treat for a long time. And simple preventive measures become most important when a woman is pregnant. All of these recommendations may well become a way of life - none of them require special effort to implement. So, prevention of bartholinitis includes the following measures:

• compliance with the rules of hygiene of the external genitalia is fundamental;
• using contraceptives during casual sex or having a single sexual partner;
• timely treatment of foci of chronic infection: urethritis, colpitis, caries, pyelonephritis, etc.;
• annual preventive visit to the gynecologist even in the absence of complaints;
• avoiding wearing tight underwear, especially synthetic ones;
• general strengthening of the immune system: proper sleep, proper nutrition, a fairly active lifestyle, avoiding hypothermia, etc.

Source: https://bezboleznej.ru/bartolinit

Bartholinitis is a dangerous inflammation of the female genital organs

The female reproductive system is very complex and represents the interconnection of many organs and continuously occurring processes. One of the most unpleasant conditions for a woman can be inflammation of the large Bartholin gland - bartholinitis, which is part of the external genital system.

What is Bartholinitis Bartholin glands

Bartholinitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the Bartholin glands.

The Bartholin gland (large vestibular gland) secretes a thick, viscous secretion that moisturizes the mucous membranes of the vagina and acts as a natural lubricant during sexual intercourse. The ducts through which fluid flows are located inside the labia minora. Bartholin's glands are only about 2 cm in size.

Microorganisms enter the gland tissue from the urethra, genital tract, through the blood or lymph flow. Inflammation leads to blockage and accumulation of fluid inside. Treatment of bartholinitis requires the mandatory intervention of specialists. But first of all, it is necessary to determine the cause of the inflammation, otherwise, without proper treatment, suppuration will begin.

Common causes of bartholinitis

Inflammation of the Bartholin glands and their ducts is caused by:

• Infection with streptococci, staphylococci and other pathogenic microbes - they can enter the genitals not only through sexual contact, but also when the infection spreads from other organs or due to poor personal hygiene.
• Protozoal and fungal infections, sexually transmitted - trichomoniasis, chlamydia, candidiasis (thrush).
• Hypothermia, decreased immunity.
• Wearing synthetic underwear in hot weather.
• Microtraumas caused by sexual intercourse with insufficient vaginal hydration.
• Traumatic medical procedures.

As a result of inflammation, the outflow of secretions becomes difficult. Its accumulation leads to the formation of a false abscess. If the disease is not treated, suppuration will begin (a real abscess).

Symptoms of bartholinitis

There are several forms of the disease:

• Acute , in which inflammation, swelling and redness are pronounced at the location of the excretory duct of the gland. Inflammation is accompanied by fever and pain that increases with movement. When examining the labia, a tumor the size of a bean (or smaller) is felt. Without treatment, the inguinal lymph nodes may become inflamed - in this case, a new disease will appear - lymphadenitis.
• Subacute , in this case the symptoms are mild. Slight pain is observed only during movement and sexual intercourse. The temperature is not elevated, there is no pronounced edema. This form of bartholinitis can become acute or go away on its own.
• Recurrent when the disease recurs. Hypothermia and wearing tight synthetic underwear contribute to the return of the disease.
• Chronic, characterized by the constant presence of inflammation and swelling. The temperature is kept within 37.1-37.5 degrees, no acute pain is noted. Chronic bartholinitis is very dangerous - it can lead to vaginal cysts.

Acute bartholinitis

The disease begins with the formation of a false abscess - a swelling in the area of ​​the labia minora caused by accumulated fluid. A woman complains of pain in the groin area and fever.

As the disease progresses, a purulent (true) abscess occurs. A woman complains of severe pain in the labia area, swelling and enlargement of the inguinal lymph nodes. The temperature rises to 39-40 degrees.

An abscess can be felt inside the gland.

When an abscess is opened independently, the contents leak out and the woman’s health temporarily improves, but then the hole closes and inflammation resumes.

Extensive suppuration of the surrounding tissues forms, which can lead to sepsis (blood poisoning).

The disease is provoked by:

• Failure to comply with hygiene rules. Wearing tight synthetic underwear in hot weather, which interferes with the natural ventilation of the skin. Dense tissues cause stagnation in the gland and interfere with the outflow of lubricant.
• STIs (gonorrhea, chlamydia, ureaplasmosis) and other genital infections.
• Diseases of the mucous membrane, accompanied by itching and scratching (leukoplakia, kraurosis). Through superficial damage, microbes from the vagina and urinary tract easily enter the gland.
• Gynecological operations and abortions performed with violation of sterility during the intervention or in the postoperative period.
• Hypothermia.
• Decreased immunity and vitamin deficiencies. A weakened body is less resistant to infections and microbes begin to multiply rapidly.
• Thrush, causing disturbances in the flora and dysbacteriosis of the vagina.
• Chronic infections in the body outside the genital tract. Microbes from there can enter the Bartholin gland with blood and lymph.

Chronic bartholinitis

The untreated acute form of the disease becomes chronic. Mild inflammation of the gland occurs with constant exacerbations after menstruation, hypothermia, and during heat.

In the chronic course of the disease, there is constant swelling in the labia area and the formation of a cyst filled with liquid contents. The formation periodically breaks through with the release of pus. A woman complains of a dull pain in the labia area that gets worse when sitting and walking.

Sometimes discomfort occurs during sexual intercourse. When pregnancy occurs, the symptoms of the disease intensify and an exacerbation occurs.

Bartholinitis and pregnancy

Inflammation of the Bartholin gland during pregnancy can be very dangerous. The disease leads to infection of the fetus during childbirth, caused by pus getting into the eyes and skin of the baby.

If the process is acute, it must be treated under the close supervision of a doctor with the selection of antibiotics that do not affect the child’s condition, or other measures. The choice of treatment depends on the stage of inflammation.

Is it necessary to treat bartholinitis?

Bartholinitis always occurs as a reaction to the presence of an infectious pathogen in the gland duct, which means that without treatment one can expect not only severe inflammation that will last for an unknown amount of time, but also the formation of an abscess.

Most often, patients who are faced with such a problem and, having read advice from the Internet, do not consult a doctor for a long time, waiting for the disease to resolve itself. And after some time, the symptoms actually become less pronounced and acute - this occurs as a result of the fact that the abscess opens on its own, removing the pus.

If you are ready to wait for the suppuration to burst, endure swelling and pain, then, of course, you don’t have to go to the gynecologist. But keep in mind that the danger of such an outcome is that the opening does not always occur externally - the infection can spread internally. And then you will also have to treat the consequences of bartholinitis.

Diagnosis of the disease

For bartholinitis it is taken. If the abscess has broken through, its contents are also examined. In addition, it is necessary to be tested for a wide group of infections. at least a “femoflor” smear that identifies 16 types of pathogens.

If surgery is necessary, the doctor will prescribe a biochemical blood test, urine test and other studies.

Is it possible to cure inflammation of the Bartholin gland on your own?

Bartholinitis can be caused by completely different pathogens, occur with different severity and in different forms. In addition, each patient may have associated problems that require additional treatment. For example, bartholinitis is often accompanied by reduced immunity, thrush; during an examination, a gynecologist may detect genital herpes or another disease.

After making a final diagnosis, only a doctor can prescribe treatment that will be aimed at eliminating exactly those infections and problems that are detected.

Treatment of bartholinitis

Antibiotics are prescribed to treat bartholinitis, but there are no universal tablets that act immediately against gonorrhea, chlamydia, streptococcus, staphylococcus, herpes, etc.! Each pathogen requires its own medicine, so “standard regimens from the Internet” do not work.

Treatment measures depend on the form of the disease:

• Acute bartholinitis . The doctor prescribes antibiotics and painkillers. The resulting abscess is opened and a duct is formed through which purulent fluid will drain. This operation is called marsupialization.
• Subacute bartholinitis can be treated without the intervention of a surgeon, which is why it is so important to consult a gynecologist in a timely manner. The doctor will find out the cause of the disease and prescribe antimicrobial or antiprotozoal medications; warm baths with herbs, physiotherapy, etc. will complement the treatment.
• Treatment of recurrent and chronic bartholinitis is complex . Existing cysts and ulcers are removed. The woman is prescribed antibiotics, sulfonamides, drugs that enhance immunity, and vitamins. Ultrasound treatment and magnetic therapy are recommended. In severe cases and in the presence of frequent relapses, extirpation (removal) of the Bartholin gland is performed.

To resolve the swelling, warm sitz baths with a slightly pink solution of potassium permanganate and physiotherapeutic procedures are used. Painkillers and antipruritics, vitamins, and immune stimulants are prescribed.

Features of the treatment of bartholinitis

In the treatment regimen for bartholinitis, local therapy plays an important role - ice compresses, salt lotions, absorbable ointments and gels. These treatment methods provide maximum relief for a sick woman’s condition and have a symptomatic effect, relieving pain, relieving swelling and irritation. Related methods are also prescribed individually.

If the patient’s condition is accompanied by very high body temperature, chills, and severe pain, the gynecologist will prescribe additional medications that reduce fever and pain, including injections.

Is surgery always necessary?

Surgical treatment of this disease may be required in cases of manifestations of an abscess (purulent process) of the Bartholin gland. In this case, the operation consists of opening the purulent focus, removing all the contents and placing a special drainage tube for 5-6 days. During this time, the remaining purulent particles are removed from the gland cavity.

At the same time, the operation does not cancel the classical therapeutic regimen described above - antibiotic therapy, local techniques, strengthening the immune system, which means that you will have to take the pills anyway.

You can refuse the operation, but this is not recommended, since the abscess will still open on its own. In this case, everything will be much more painful, the infection can get into the vagina and spread to the internal genital organs, and everything will take a very long time to heal.

In severe cases, the gland must be removed.

What to do if bartholinitis worsens?

If the disease recurs, it is necessary to determine the cause of the relapse: perhaps the pathogen remains in the body. In this case, treatment will be aimed at eliminating the infection and strengthening the immune system.

As for frequently recurring periods of exacerbation, surgical intervention may be necessary for effective treatment, and chronic bartholinitis requires an operation different from that performed in the acute form.

In the chronic form of bartholinitis, simply removing the contents of the abscess is ineffective, since the tissues quickly stick together, again blocking the gland duct. To solve this problem, surgeons have developed two methods of performing surgery for chronic bartholinitis:

• The first surgical technique was called marsupialization and represents the formation of a new drainage canal of the gland, which does not undergo adhesion and removes the secretions and contents of the vaginal vestibule without causing suppuration. It is possible to achieve the formation of such a channel through an incision in the suppurated cavity, followed by washing it and installing a catheter, which is left for 4-5 weeks. During this time, a stable duct is formed for the discharge of glandular secretions, which reduces the risk of exacerbation by almost 90%.
• The second surgical technique is aimed at completely removing the Bartholin gland. It is only used in cases of multiple failed attempts at marsupialization. Unfortunately, the absence of the Bartholin gland leads to excessive dryness and irritability of the tissues and mucous membranes of the vagina, so patients have to use special moisturizers - these are prescribed by the doctor.

Prevention

To prevent bartholinitis you need:

• Get tested regularly for STDs and, if infections are detected, treat them immediately;
• Avoid wearing thick synthetic underwear, especially in hot weather;
• Avoid hypothermia of the lower half of the body;
• Do not use aggressive soaps or antibacterial agents (unless prescribed by a doctor). These drugs disrupt the natural balance of microflora, contributing to the occurrence of dysbiosis (development of pathogenic flora) and candidiasis - a fungal infection;
• Use pH-neutral intimate hygiene products.

Bartholinitis is easy to prevent; if you follow preventive measures, the risk of the disease is greatly reduced.

Where to cure inflammation of the Bartholin glands in St. Petersburg

Every woman faced with such a serious condition needs to promptly contact an experienced gynecologist. Such doctors work in St. Petersburg at the Diana Medical Center. Specialists use only proven effective treatment methods, so you will get rid of an unpleasant disease without complications. An appointment with a gynecologist costs 1000 rubles.

Source: https://medcentr-diana-spb.ru/ginekologiya/bartolinit-vospalenie-bartolinovoy-zhelezyi/

Bartholinitis in women: symptoms and treatment with antibiotics / Mama66.ru

Bartholinitis is a gynecological pathology that affects the vestibule of the vagina. Infectious causative agents of the disease are pathogenic microorganisms that cause an inflammatory process in the Bartholin gland, with septic damage to its tissues and excretory duct.

If the doctor has diagnosed bartholinitis, treatment is carried out with the mandatory use of antibiotics and local procedures. In the advanced stage of the disease, the formed abscess contains pus, which requires urgent surgical intervention with washing the cavity of the affected gland.

Treatment of bartholinitis should begin as early as possible, immediately after the pathology has been diagnosed.

To cope with the inflammatory process and prevent further spread of infection to nearby tissues and organs, a woman must follow all doctor’s orders.

Bartholinitis has several stages of development, each of which has different characteristics, and therefore treatment will be prescribed to the patient on an individual basis.

Treatment by stages

Treatment of bartholinitis at the initial stage - the canaliculitis stage - is in most cases carried out on an outpatient basis . The gynecologist prescribes medications to the patient and advises on all medical procedures that will have to be performed independently at home.

Treatment of the disease at the initial stage includes:

• compliance with bed rest;
• restriction of physical activity;
• applying cold compresses to the affected gland;
• anti-inflammatory treatment using baths with extracts of medicinal plants, salt and potassium permanganate;
• taking extended-spectrum antibiotics;
• vitamin therapy.

Treatment of bartholinitis at the second stage - the stage of false abscess - is also often practiced on an outpatient basis . Only in the case of a serious inflammatory process, complicated by severe intoxication, can the patient be sent to the hospital. An ambulance should be called if the body temperature during bartholinitis exceeds 38.5°C.

Treatment of the disease at the second stage consists of antibiotic therapy, local treatment with Levomekol and Vishnevsky ointment; if necessary, the affected gland is opened on an outpatient basis with the contents removed and the abscess cavity washed.

The third stage of bartholinitis - a purulent cyst of the gland - requires treatment in a hospital . The formed purulent abscess is opened surgically. After treating the cavity, the doctor forms an excretory duct from the Bartholin gland, leaving a catheter or drainage tube in it to drain the secretions.

Also, treatment of the third stage of the disease includes mandatory antibiotic therapy and local treatment. In some cases, the Bartholin gland is removed completely if periodic relapses of the disease occur.

Treatment of acute bartholinitis

Treatment of the acute form of bartholinitis is mainly carried out in a hospital. Only the initial stage of the disease can be carried out under the supervision of a doctor on an outpatient basis. The condition for a speedy recovery is strict adherence to all the doctor’s prescriptions.

Treatment of symptoms of bartholinitis in women has the following goals:

• elimination of pain in the source of inflammation and intoxication of the body;
• prevention of the formation of a true abscess - the third stage of the disease;
• prevention of the formation of cystic complications of the Bartholin gland.

The course of treatment consists of antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drugs, and physiotherapy.

Local treatment

For bartholinitis, the following remedies may be effective:

1. Cold . Wrap an ice pack in clean gauze and apply to the affected gland for about 30 minutes. After this, take a break for the same amount of time and reapply the bubble, filling it with a new portion of ice. The total duration of topical ice treatment is 2 hours daily.
2. Salt compresses . An 8-10% salt solution helps to resolve inflammation and draw out infectious contents from the wound cavity without destroying the tissue structure. A salt solution of the required concentration is prepared as follows: for 1 liter of water, take 3 tbsp. l. salt. The water should be warm so that the salt dissolves better. Moisten gauze, folded several times, in the resulting solution and place on the affected gland for 40 minutes. Perform the procedure at least 6 times a day.
3. Dressings with Vishnevsky ointment or Levomekol . Both of these drugs are used to treat bartholinitis at home. The drug is applied to a gauze swab, which should be secured at the site of inflammation of the gland with a bandage. In this case, dressings with drugs should be alternated, for example, treating bartholinitis with Vishnevsky ointment during the day, and Levomekol at night.
4. Antiseptic solutions . Treatment of bartonylitis should be carried out with solutions with a disinfecting effect that do not lead to locally irritating results and burns on the skin. For example, the drugs Miramistin and Chlorhexidine are used, which should be used to wash the inflammation and treat the wound.

Physiotherapeutic treatment

Physiotherapy treatment can be prescribed provided that local treatment has helped improve the woman’s condition. With adequate therapy, this occurs on the 4th day. Physiotherapeutic treatment includes magnetic therapy and UHF, phonophoresis.

Treatment with antibiotics

Treatment of bartholinitis with antibiotics is mandatory, since the pathology is caused by infectious agents. The course of antibiotic therapy is 7-10 days. To increase the effectiveness of treatment, it is important to identify the causative agent of the disease and its sensitivity to antibacterial agents.

But in practice, there is not enough time for this, since the disease develops rapidly, and antibiotic therapy, in most cases, must be started immediately. For this reason, bartholinitis is often treated with extended-spectrum antibiotics without additional research.

What antibiotics are used to treat bartholinitis? These drugs are Azithromycin, Cefazolin, Amoxiclav. Trichopolum and Tinidazole are prescribed less frequently. Along with antibiotic therapy, symptomatic treatment is prescribed, aimed at eliminating pain and relieving fever. It is carried out with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen, Nurofen) and analgesics (Analgin, Baralgin).

Surgery

Treatment of acute bartholinitis by surgery is carried out when a purulent abscess forms. During the operation, the doctor opens the inflammatory lesion and removes the pus present in it. Then the wound surface is treated with 3% hydrogen peroxide, and a drainage tube is inserted into the cavity of the gland; it is necessary to remove the remaining pus.

After a few days, if the dynamics of recovery are positive, the tube is removed. To speed up the healing process, a course of antibiotics and local treatment is prescribed.

Treatment of chronic bartholinitis

Treatment of chronic bartholinitis requires an individual approach. The fact is that the formed dense capsule in the Bartholin gland can create a barrier to the penetration of medications. Treatment of the chronic form of the disease is carried out in two ways - medication and surgery.

Conservative treatment

The goal of drug therapy is to eliminate the clinical picture of the pathology and relieve the inflammatory process. Treatment in this case may be similar to the treatment of the acute phase of bartholinitis, that is, antibiotics, local and symptomatic therapy are used.

After the condition improves, physiotherapeutic methods are prescribed: UHF, infrared laser, magnetic therapy and ozokerite. Vitamin therapy is used to strengthen immune defense. Anti-inflammatory sitz baths can be prescribed locally using antiseptic solutions of chamomile, oak bark, and potassium permanganate.

Surgery

Surgery for chronic bartholinitis is carried out in two ways:

• marsupialization - the formation of an artificial duct of the Bartholin gland;
• extirpation - complete resection of the gland.

Marsupialization is the preferred surgical treatment option for bartholinitis in gynecology. Indications for its implementation are frequent relapses of the disease, the formation of a large-diameter cystic formation, and inconveniences that arise during sexual intercourse and in everyday life.

The purpose of marsupialization is the formation of an artificial channel, thanks to which the accumulated secretion in the gland can be freely removed to the outside.

How is the operation performed?:

1. The patient is given anesthesia.
2. In the abscess or cyst of the Bartholin gland, the doctor makes an incision no more than 0.5 cm long.
3. The opened cavity is thoroughly cleaned of contents and washed with 3% hydrogen peroxide or other antiseptic solution.
4. A catheter is inserted into the organ cavity and secured with a special ball.
5. After a few weeks, the catheter is removed, and in its place an artificially created duct of the Bartholin gland should be formed, ready to function in the desired direction.

Rehabilitation after marsupialization is easy and quick, complications are rare. Relapses of bartholinitis occur in 2-10% of all patients who have undergone this surgical intervention.

Estirpation is performed less frequently, since this operation is often accompanied by serious blood loss. This is due to the fact that the Bartholin gland has a connection with a large vein. Also, a serious disadvantage of the operation is the disruption of the subsequent natural process of moisturizing the vaginal walls.

But sometimes extirpation is a real salvation for a woman if she has constant relapses of the pathology or has had unsuccessful marsupialization in the past.

How the operation is performed:

1. The patient receives anesthesia.
2. The doctor makes an incision on the inner surface of the labia minora.
3. Through the resulting hole, the iron is completely removed to the surface.
4. Catgut suture material is applied to the incision site.

Rehabilitation after extirpation lasts at least 10 days. At this time, the woman is prescribed physiotherapeutic procedures - UHF, magnetic therapy, phonophoresis and applications with anti-inflammatory drugs.

Treatment with traditional methods

Treatment of bartholinitis with folk remedies is justified if the woman does not self-medicate.

If you suspect the development of inflammation of the Bartholin gland, then first of all you need to seek help from a gynecologist, who, in addition to the main treatment, can prescribe herbal medicine methods.

It is important to remember that treatment with herbal remedies should be long-term and regular; resorting to it from time to time is pointless.

Let's look at folk recipes that successfully treat bartholinitis.

Sitz baths with herbal extracts:

1. Chamomile based. 2 tbsp. l. pour 2 cups of boiling water over the herbs and leave for about an hour. Add the finished broth to a bowl of boiled water and take a bath for at least 15 minutes.
2. Based on eucalyptus. 2 tbsp. l. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the plants and leave for 30 minutes. Then pour the eucalyptus decoction into a bowl of water and take a bath as in the previous case.
3. Based on calendula. 2 tbsp. l. plants, brew 0.5 liters of water in an enamel bowl, place it in a water bath for 15 minutes. Cool the finished broth, strain and add to the water for a sitz bath.

Medicinal decoctions for internal use:

1. In a blender, grind 200 grams of freshly picked aloe leaves into a pulp (the plant must be at least 5 years old), add 0.5 liters of honey and 2 tbsp. l. red wine. Stir the mixture, bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for at least an hour. After this, the drug must be cooled and taken 1 tbsp. l. 30 minutes before meals.
2. Mix 50 grams of boiled garlic cloves, 25 grams of dill seeds, 200 grams of chopped walnuts and 0.5 liters of honey into a homogeneous mass. Take 2 tbsp. l. 3 times a day, an hour after meals.
3. In equal proportions, take walnut leaves, smoke herb, pine tops, medicinal agrimony and immortelle, combine 2 tbsp. l. the resulting mixture with 1 tsp. crushed valerian. Pour the mixture into 0.5 liters of boiling water and simmer over low heat for a quarter of an hour. Take the cooled broth one third of a glass after meals.

Bartholinitis does not tolerate self-medication. Before turning to traditional recipes, it is important to visit a doctor and choose the appropriate course of treatment depending on how the disease progresses.

The combination of adequate diagnosis, identification of the causative agent of the disease, prescription of drug therapy, coupled with traditional medicine methods, guarantees a speedy recovery and relief from such a delicate problem of the female genital area as bartholinitis.

Olga Rogozhkina, doctor, specially for Mama66.ru

Source: https://mama66.ru/gynecology/simptomy-lechenie-bartolinita