Bartholin cyst under the skin: what the lump feels like

It forms below the surface when fluid collects behind a blocked Bartholin duct. The overlying skin may initially look unchanged. Tenderness, heat, redness, pus, or rapidly worsening swelling can develop if the cyst becomes infected and forms an abscess.

The Bartholin glands lie near the lower sides of the vaginal entrance, so a cyst is generally felt in that region and often affects one side. It may feel soft or tense depending on how much fluid is trapped, but touch cannot confirm its contents.

Not every subcutaneous vulval lump comes from a Bartholin gland. Blocked skin glands, inflamed follicles, and other cysts can occur in nearby tissue. Exact position, depth, surface appearance, discomfort, and change over time help a clinician separate these possibilities.

Leave the lump intact rather than pressing, needling, or trying to drain it. A warm bath or compress may reduce mild discomfort. Choose breathable, loose clothing and pause shaving or activities that cause direct friction until irritation settles.

Arrange an examination for a new, persistent, enlarging, or recurrent lump. A quiet cyst may be monitored, while a symptomatic cyst or abscess can require drainage. Marsupialisation is one option a gynaecologist may discuss when creating a lasting drainage opening is appropriate.

Get urgent assessment if the lump enlarges quickly, becomes very painful, hot, red, or increasingly tender, releases pus, or occurs with fever or feeling unwell. Difficulty sitting, walking, having sex, or passing urine is another reason to seek prompt care.

Emergency help is appropriate for severe illness, faintness, confusion, rapidly spreading redness, or uncontrolled bleeding. These warning signs matter even when the skin over the lump has not opened.

Ask whether the lump sits in the expected Bartholin gland position, what findings suggest infection, and whether observation or drainage is suitable. For a recurring lump, discuss ways to keep it draining, expected aftercare, and what symptoms should trigger reassessment.