Does a Bartholin Cyst Cause a Vulval Lump?

The Bartholin glands sit on either side of the lower vaginal opening and help produce lubrication. If the duct from a gland becomes blocked, fluid can collect and form a cyst. The lump is often on one side and may be small and painless. Walking, sitting, or sex can become uncomfortable if it grows or becomes inflamed.

A painful, hot, swollen lump may be an abscess, which contains infected fluid. Other skin cysts, inflamed glands, and less common conditions can also cause a vulval lump, so location and examination matter.

Arrange a clinical assessment for a new or recurring lump, particularly if it is painful, enlarging, draining, or affecting walking or sitting. A warm shallow bath may ease discomfort, but do not squeeze, cut, or attempt to drain the lump yourself. Keep the area clean and dry and wear loose clothing.

A clinician may recommend observation for a small, comfortable cyst or drainage when a cyst is persistent or infected. The choice depends on your symptoms, examination, age, and health history.

Seek same-day care for rapidly increasing pain or swelling, fever, pus, spreading redness, or difficulty walking or sitting. Seek urgent help if you feel very unwell. A new lump after menopause should be examined promptly, even if it is not painful.

Does the location and feel fit a Bartholin cyst? Could it be infected? Is observation appropriate, or would drainage help? How can recurrence be managed? Does my age or medical history change the evaluation?