Where is a Bartholin gland cyst located?

The Bartholin glands lie near the lower part of the vaginal entrance, with one gland on each side. Their ducts open close to the entrance and carry lubricating fluid. When a duct is blocked, the swelling develops beside the opening rather than deep inside the vagina or high in the pelvis.

A small cyst may feel like a soft, rounded bump and cause little discomfort. As it enlarges, its position can create pressure during walking, sitting, cycling, inserting a tampon, or sexual activity. If infection produces an abscess, the area may become acutely tender, warm, red, and swollen, sometimes with pus or fever.

A lump elsewhere on the outer or upper vulva is less typical for a Bartholin cyst. Skin cysts, inflamed hair follicles, hernias, and other conditions can resemble one another, so location alone cannot confirm a diagnosis.

Note which side the swelling is on, whether it is near the vaginal entrance, and whether it is soft, firm, tender, growing, or draining. You do not need to press hard or examine inside the vagina. Do not squeeze or pierce the lump.

For a small mildly sore swelling, comfortably warm-water soaks and loose clothing may reduce irritation. A clinician can inspect and gently examine the area, determine whether fluid or infection is present, and discuss observation or drainage. A repeated blockage may be managed with a catheter or marsupialisation to maintain an opening.

Arrange urgent care for severe pain, quickly increasing swelling, spreading redness, heat, pus, fever, or feeling unwell. Make a non-urgent appointment for a lump that persists, returns, feels hard or fixed, sits somewhere other than the typical lower entrance, or is newly noticed after menopause. An examination can identify whether the lump comes from the Bartholin gland or another structure.

Ask which structure the swelling appears to arise from, whether it contains fluid, and whether signs point to an abscess. You can also ask whether any sample or further test is needed, how to manage friction and pain, and which change in size, texture, or drainage should prompt another visit.