Soaking in warm water 4 times a day for several days usually provides some relief. This may help localize infection and cause the abscess to open and drain on its own. However, this does not always solve the problem because the site of rupture is usually very small and closes quickly, before drainage is complete.
Surgical incision, which results in complete drainage of the abscess, provides the greatest relief and the fastest recovery. This procedure can be done under local anesthesia in a doctor's office. Placement of an iodoform gauze wick or a small rubber catheter allows the abscess to continue draining while healing.
Antibiotics may be prescribed to combat the infection, but they are not usually needed if the abscess is drained properly.
Women who have recurrent abscesses may consider a procedure called marsupialization. In this procedure, a small, permanent opening is surgically created to help the gland drain.
Your health care provider may recommend that the glands be removed if abscesses recur.
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