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em@3am

EM@3AM: Bartholin’s Abscess

A 36-year-old female presents to the ED with vaginal pain. She initially noticed a small bump one week ago that was only painful with sexual intercourse, but it has grown and now causes discomfort even when walking. Her temperature is 98.9oF, heart rate 78, and blood pressure 126/84. On exam she has a large, soft mass protruding at the 8 o'clock position of the vaginal opening that is painful and fluctuant to touch. There is some induration around the mass, but no vaginal discharge is noted on the pelvic exam. What is most likely causing this woman's pain? How would you manage this diagnosis to provide some relief?