What should you know about reason for bartholin cyst?

Bartholin glands sit on either side of the lower vaginal opening and help provide lubrication. If a duct closes, its fluid can form a lump. Bacteria may enter the trapped fluid, creating an abscess with increasing pain, swelling, warmth or pus. Friction can make symptoms more noticeable, but a cyst is not caused by poor hygiene. A lump can also have other causes, so a new or persistent swelling should be examined rather than diagnosed at home.

A small, comfortable cyst may settle with warm baths and gentle cleansing. Do not squeeze, pierce or cut it, because this can worsen inflammation and infection. Keep the area dry and wear loose underwear while it is tender. A clinician can decide whether observation, antibiotics for infection, drainage or Bartholin Cyst Marsupialisation is appropriate. Marsupialisation creates a lasting opening to help fluid drain and may be discussed when cysts return.

Book an assessment for a new lump, pain during walking or sitting, repeated cysts, or symptoms that do not improve. Seek prompt care for rapidly increasing swelling, fever, severe pain, spreading redness, pus, or difficulty passing urine. A painful swollen vulva may need same-day evaluation; read more about Vulval Pain while arranging care.

Does this look like a cyst or an abscess? Do I need drainage or a sample? How can recurrence be reduced? What changes should make me return urgently?