A suspected Bartholin cyst near the urethra

People can find it difficult to judge the exact origin of a vulval swelling themselves. A clinician can identify whether it comes from a Bartholin duct, tissue around the urethra or another skin structure.

The urethral opening is where urine leaves the body and sits above the vaginal entrance. Bartholin ducts open lower down, to either side of that entrance. Swellings around these nearby structures may feel similar despite having different causes and treatments.

Urinary spraying, dribbling, burning or a feeling that the bladder has not emptied gives the examiner useful location clues. These symptoms do not establish the cause on their own.

Do not push, puncture or massage the lump toward the urethra. Wash gently with water, avoid perfumed products and wear clothing that does not rub. A warm shallow bath may ease soreness, but it cannot confirm what structure is swollen.

Notice whether the lump changes during urination, whether blood or pus appears, and whether discomfort is linked to sex or sitting. Note any change in the urine stream. Share these observations with the clinician without repeatedly pressing the area to check it.

Get urgent medical help if you cannot pass urine or develop severe lower abdominal discomfort with a full-bladder sensation. Prompt assessment is also appropriate for fever, escalating pain, fast-growing swelling, spreading redness or feeling markedly unwell.

A new lump that remains near the urethra should be checked even if it is not painful. Earlier evaluation is especially helpful when it bleeds, ulcerates or repeatedly becomes infected.

Ask which structure the swelling arises from, whether urine flow is affected and whether an examination alone is enough to identify it. If treatment is proposed, ask how it will protect the urethral opening and what recovery signs require review.