Bartholin gland cysts explained

The swelling is usually on one side. A small cyst may cause little discomfort, while a larger cyst can produce pressure or pain during walking, sitting, or sex. Infection can turn the collection into a tender abscess.

The Bartholin glands sit near the lower sides of the vaginal opening, with narrow ducts carrying lubricating fluid to the surface. When a duct cannot empty, a soft or tense lump may develop under the skin.

Increasing tenderness, warmth, redness, pus-like drainage, or fever can accompany infection. The presence of a vulval lump alone does not identify its cause, because several skin, gland, and soft-tissue conditions can appear in this area.

For a small, mildly uncomfortable swelling, clean warm sitz baths and loose clothing may reduce irritation and encourage natural drainage. Do not squeeze, lance, or insert a needle into it. These actions can damage tissue and spread bacteria.

Have the lump examined if it persists, enlarges, is painful, or returns. Treatment depends on its size, symptoms, infection, and previous episodes. Options may include observation, pain relief, antibiotics in selected infections, or a procedure that drains the cavity.

Prompt care is appropriate when pain becomes severe, swelling grows quickly, redness spreads, fever or chills develop, discharge smells unpleasant, or you feel significantly unwell. Such changes can indicate an abscess or infection beyond the cyst.

Any new lump that is hard, fixed, irregular, or unexplained should be assessed, particularly at an older age. Clinical examination guides whether additional testing is needed rather than assuming every swelling comes from a Bartholin gland.

Consider asking what features support the diagnosis, whether infection is present, what home care is suitable, and how recurrence would be managed. If a procedure is offered, ask how drainage is maintained, how the area is cared for afterward, and which symptoms require follow-up.