Pregnant with a Bartholin cyst

A Bartholin cyst forms when a gland duct near the vaginal opening becomes blocked. It may feel like a smooth lump and cause little discomfort. If bacteria enter the blocked area, an abscess can develop, causing intense throbbing pain, swelling, warmth, redness, or pus.

Pregnancy does not make every cyst dangerous, but treatment choices should be made with your maternity clinician. A painful lump may also be discussed alongside the symptom of [Vulval Pain](/symptoms/vulval-pain/).

Arrange an examination so the clinician can confirm the lump and check for infection. A warm sitz bath may soothe discomfort if your clinician says it is suitable. Keep the area clean and dry, and do not squeeze, pierce, or try to drain the cyst yourself.

If drainage is needed, your clinician can explain options such as [Bartholin Cyst Marsupialisation](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/bartholin-cyst-marsupialisation/) and how the timing fits with your pregnancy. Ask before taking pain medicine, antibiotics, or other treatment.

Seek urgent assessment for fever, chills, rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, spreading redness, pus, difficulty walking or passing urine, or feeling faint or very unwell. These features can indicate an abscess or infection requiring treatment.

Ask whether the lump looks infected, which pain relief is suitable, whether drainage is needed, and what changes should prompt same-day review during pregnancy.