I am a 35 year old female. Had a pilonidal cyst and surgery 15 years ago.
Initally, my pilondal cyst formed as a result of winter sledding – I landed on a snow covered rock and shortly there after began experiencing the wonders of this condition. Last fall year I went horseback riding and since have been in pain. I knew I shouldn’t have gone riding but it was too tempting! I should have listened to my gut!
Pain would come and go for months, usually worsening around my cycle or with prolonged sitting. I’ve figured out over this time the things that aggravate it – of course sitting, but also soap and certain foods! Warm bathes helped but pain actually worsened after. Baby wipes is my trick! The itchness is sometimes unbearable – the doctor stated this is a sign of infection – as is the feeling that I am sitting on a golfball, or some days, softball!
An abcess formed and began draining on its own about 5 months after horseback riding. I have not had to have it lanced as it’s draining – depending on whether there is a flareup or not, drainage changes from clear to pus to blood. In July, I had a sinus formed while waiting to get into a Colorectal Surgeon – I never anticipated I’d wait 4 months for an appointment and I definitely did not wish to go to the ER! I know have 3 sinuses in the area.
I have surgery scheduled for November 16th. The wound will be left open to heal and I will be given a wound vac. The procedure will require 1 month off work – especially with the wound vac, cyst size and my physical job. I am hopeful this won’t be nearly as painful as 15 years ago! The doctor feels the wound vac is a great resource for excisions – especially to avoid the 3x a day packings following surgery or having a home nurse. I am told it is expensive (but covered by insurance) and cumbersome but worth it. Wish me luck.
This time around I am much more nervous than when I was in my 20’s! For all the ladies out there, don’t be embarrassed by this… although not pleasant and in a very private region, it is common amongst women. My doctor told me 50% of his cases are females!
Take the time to get it addressed so you can be without the pain.