How is a Bartholin cyst diagnosed?

The assessment identifies whether a duct is blocked, whether an abscess is present and whether another condition could explain the lump. Tests are not required for every typical cyst; they are chosen when the history, discharge, infection signs, age or appearance creates a specific question.

You may be asked when the swelling began, whether it has changed, whether it has happened before, and how it affects walking, sitting, sex or urination. Fever, discharge, skin changes, recent treatment, pregnancy possibility and relevant sexual-health concerns can also shape care.

During the examination, the clinician checks the lump's position near the vaginal opening, its size and texture, and whether there is tenderness, warmth, redness, drainage or broken skin. They may examine nearby tissue to distinguish a Bartholin cyst from other causes of a vulval mass.

Note when you first noticed the lump, whether pain or size has changed, and any fever or drainage. Bring a list of medicines, allergies, medical conditions and previous procedures for the same problem. You can request a chaperone and tell the clinician if you need the examination explained or paused.

Do not squeeze or puncture the swelling before the appointment. If infection or discharge is suspected, the clinician may collect a swab. Sampling or further evaluation may be recommended for a firm, atypical or later-life mass. Treatment can sometimes occur during the same visit if an abscess needs drainage.

Get prompt assessment if swelling or pain increases quickly, pus appears, redness spreads, or you develop fever, chills or feel markedly unwell. Seek urgent help if pain prevents walking or sitting normally, or if swelling makes it difficult to pass urine.

A hard, fixed, irregular, bleeding or ulcerated lump needs timely review. A newly appearing Bartholin-area mass after menopause should also be examined directly, even without pain, so that conditions with a similar appearance can be considered.

Ask which features point to a Bartholin cyst, whether it is infected, and whether any test is intended to answer a particular concern. If treatment is proposed, ask why observation, catheter drainage or marsupialisation fits your situation and what follow-up will confirm that healing is progressing.