Word Catheter Treatment for Bartholin’s Cyst
A Bartholin’s cyst is a fluid-filled swelling near the vaginal opening caused by a blocked gland duct. If infected, it can form a painful abscess. A Word catheter is a small, soft tube with a balloon tip that keeps the opening open after drainage, allowing a new channel to form as the area heals and helping reduce the risk of recurrence.
When the Service May Be Recommended
A consultation may be recommended if you:
Notice a new or persistent lump near the vaginal opening.
Experience discomfort when sitting, walking or having sex.
Have a swelling that is growing or affecting daily activities.
Have a Bartholin’s cyst that keeps returning.
Want to discuss drainage or treatment with a Word catheter.
Mr Richard Flint will assess the swelling and explain whether treatment is needed and which option may be suitable.
What to Expect
The procedure
Word catheter insertion is usually performed in the outpatient clinic under local anaesthetic. During the procedure:
A small incision is made in the cyst or abscess to allow fluid to drain.
The Word catheter is inserted into the cavity.
The balloon at the tip of the catheter is gently inflated with fluid to keep it in place.
The catheter remains in place to allow continuous drainage and healing.
The procedure itself typically takes 10–15 minutes.
Recovery
Most patients can return home shortly after the procedure and resume normal daily activities within a day or two.
The catheter is usually left in place for approximately 2–4 weeks, allowing the new drainage pathway to form.
During recovery, patients are generally advised to:
Take simple pain relief if needed
Avoid sexual intercourse while the catheter is in place
Keep the area clean with regular washing or warm sitz baths
Wear loose, comfortable clothing
The catheter will either fall out naturally or be removed during a follow-up appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Word catheter treatment painful?
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area before the procedure. Some mild discomfort or pressure may be felt afterwards but this usually settles quickly.
Can the cyst return after treatment?
Word catheter insertion significantly reduces the risk of recurrence, although cysts can occasionally return in some patients.
Can I walk and work normally with the catheter in place?
Most women can return to normal daily activities shortly after the procedure, although some awareness of the catheter may be present initially.
If you are experiencing a painful Bartholin’s cyst or abscess, early treatment can provide rapid relief and help prevent recurrence.
Mr Richard Flint offers expert outpatient management of Bartholin’s cysts, including Word catheter treatment, providing safe and effective care in a discreet clinical setting.