Why does a Bartholin cyst happen?

Inflammation, irritation, minor tissue injury, or infection may contribute to the obstruction, but many people cannot identify a specific event. The trapped fluid may cause no pain or become infected and form a tender abscess.

Each Bartholin gland has a fine channel that opens near the vaginal entrance. Normal secretion can accumulate when the channel's opening swells shut or is covered by tissue during healing. The resulting lump is the collection of fluid, not an enlarged gland performing extra work.

If bacteria multiply within the closed space, pressure and inflammation can increase rapidly. This explains why a previously mild lump may become painful, warm, red, and difficult to sit on. Infection is a possible complication, not a feature of every cyst.

Avoid squeezing or inserting a needle, as forced drainage can damage the vulva and spread infection. Gentle warm soaks may ease pressure, while loose underwear and avoiding irritating washes can reduce surface discomfort. Keep track of growth, drainage, and changes in pain.

Have a persistent or repeated lump checked to confirm what it is. If it is large, painful, infected, or recurrent, a clinician may recommend drainage. Marsupialisation is one option that forms a small open pouch so gland fluid can continue to escape.

Request urgent assessment for escalating pain, rapid enlargement, pus, spreading redness, fever, chills, or a general feeling of illness. Difficulty walking or sitting because of pain is another reason to seek care promptly.

Arrange timely review of any new vulval lump after menopause, even without infection symptoms, because it needs direct examination. A clinician can determine whether the swelling comes from a Bartholin gland or a different structure.

Ask what supports the diagnosis, whether infection testing is useful, and which changes would make drainage necessary. If this has happened before, ask why the duct may be closing again and how available procedures differ in aftercare and recurrence.