DEAR DR. GOTT: Two years ago, a gland in my vaginal area starting draining smelly yellow pus. It then stopped but began to swell and cause terrible pain. I went to my gynecologist who opened the gland. After about two weeks, the swelling and pain stopped. However, now it drains constantly. I have gone back to my doctor twice yet he finds nothing wrong!

I am 60 years old and had a hysterectomy 20 years ago because of a fibroid tumor.

DEAR READER: You appear to have developed a cyst on one of your Bartholin glands. These glands are responsible for maintaining vaginal moisture. This occurrence is more common in women 20-29. All women over 40 who develop these cysts should be tested thoroughly to rule out cancer as a possible cause. Follow-up testing should also include blood work to check for sexually transmitted infections and diseases.

Since your current gynecologist appears to find no problem with your persistent drainage, I recommend you seek a second opinion from another gynecologist. The perseverance of the discharge you describe is not normal and needs to be diagnosed and treated.

Two years is far too long to have suffered with this. You need answers so don’t delay is finding another physician.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my newly updated Health Report “Vaginal Infections and Disorders”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, 4 ¼” X 9 ½” letter-sized stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.