Labial cysts that are not Bartholin cysts

Labial cysts can sit in the outer or inner labia and may feel like a smooth, round lump beneath the skin. Some remain small and cause no symptoms. Others become tender when clothing rubs them, during walking or with sexual activity. A blocked oil or sweat gland, an epidermoid cyst, or an inflamed hair follicle can produce a lump outside the typical Bartholin gland area. A clinician may examine the vulva and ask how quickly it appeared, whether it drains, and whether you have had fever or recurrent lumps.

Vulval pain can have several causes, including irritation, infection and inflammation, so pain alone does not identify the cyst type.

Keep the area clean with lukewarm water and avoid squeezing, piercing or repeatedly checking the lump. Loose cotton underwear and avoiding fragranced washes may reduce rubbing and irritation. A warm, shallow bath can soothe discomfort, but stop if it worsens the pain. Arrange a gynaecology or primary-care assessment if the lump persists, returns, enlarges or interferes with sitting, walking or sex. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve observation, medicine for infection, drainage or a minor procedure.

Seek prompt medical care for rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, fever, spreading redness, pus, difficulty passing urine or feeling unwell. A new lump that is firm, fixed, bleeding or not healing also deserves examination. Do not delay assessment because a lump is painless; the appearance and examination findings matter more than discomfort alone.

Ask where the lump appears to originate, whether it needs testing, which symptoms suggest infection, and what changes should trigger urgent review. If a procedure is suggested, ask how the area will be numbed, how to care for it afterwards and whether recurrence is possible.