Why do Bartholin cysts develop?

The blockage may follow local swelling, irritation, injury, or infection, although an exact trigger is often not apparent. Developing a cyst does not mean that hygiene has been poor or that a sexually transmitted infection is necessarily present.

Bartholin glands release lubricating fluid through small ducts beside the vaginal opening. When an outlet narrows or closes, secretion remains trapped and gradually forms a soft or firm swelling. A cyst may cause no pain if the fluid is not infected.

Bacteria can enter the trapped fluid and cause an abscess. In that situation, inflammation creates increasing tenderness, heat, redness, and sometimes pus or fever. Several kinds of bacteria can be involved, so the cyst's presence alone does not identify a particular infection.

Leave a small, comfortable lump alone rather than squeezing it. Warm baths or compresses can soothe the area and may allow spontaneous drainage. Wash gently, avoid fragranced products on the vulva, and reduce pressure from tight clothing until tenderness settles.

Book an assessment if the lump does not settle, keeps returning, or affects movement or sex. A clinician may check for infection and discuss drainage. Recurrent or troublesome cysts can sometimes be managed with marsupialisation, which creates an opening for continued drainage.

Obtain prompt care when the lump enlarges quickly, pain becomes intense, pus drains, the skin is hot or red, or fever and chills occur. These changes may signal an abscess that needs professional drainage rather than home treatment.

A new lump after menopause should also be examined without delay, including when it causes no pain, so a clinician can rule out other vulval conditions. Do not puncture the area while waiting for care.

Consider asking whether the position fits a blocked Bartholin duct, whether a swab or infection testing is appropriate, and how to recognise an abscess. For repeated episodes, ask whether there is a lasting drainage option and what recovery would involve.