Internal Bartholin cyst: what to know

Bartholin glands sit near the lower vaginal opening and release fluid. If a duct is blocked, fluid can collect and form a cyst. A small cyst may cause no symptoms, while a larger one can feel like a lump, create pressure, or make walking, sitting or intercourse uncomfortable.

If bacteria enter the blocked area, an abscess can develop. Increasing pain, warmth, swelling, redness, pus or fever can signal infection. Vulval pain can have other causes, so an examination may be needed when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Do not squeeze, cut or try to drain the lump yourself. A warm sitz bath may ease mild discomfort, but it will not treat a painful abscess reliably. Wear loose clothing, avoid activities that increase pressure, and arrange a clinician review if the lump persists or interferes with movement or sex.

A clinician may recommend drainage when the cyst is painful or infected. Bartholin cyst marsupialisation creates a small opening to help fluid drain and reduce the chance of the duct closing again; the appropriate option depends on examination findings.

Seek prompt care for rapidly worsening pain, fever, pus, spreading redness, difficulty walking or difficulty passing urine. A new Bartholin-area lump in a person after menopause should be examined without delay. Seek urgent help if you feel faint or severely unwell.

Ask whether the lump is a cyst or abscess, whether drainage or antibiotics are needed, how to care for the area afterward, and what symptoms should prompt a return visit.