What should you know about a small Bartholin gland cyst?

Bartholin glands sit near the vaginal opening and release lubricating fluid through small ducts. If a duct becomes blocked, fluid can collect and form a cyst. A small cyst may feel like a lump near one side of the vaginal entrance and may be noticed while walking, sitting, or having sex, although some cysts cause no symptoms.

When bacteria enter a blocked area, an abscess can develop. This tends to cause rapid swelling, marked tenderness, warmth, redness, or difficulty sitting and walking. A lump that is new, persistent, or unusual should be examined rather than squeezed.

A warm sitz bath or warm compress may ease discomfort and encourage natural drainage. Keep the area clean and dry, wear loose underwear, and avoid squeezing, cutting, or attempting to drain the lump yourself. Pause sexual activity if it increases pain. Arrange a review if the lump does not settle, returns, or interferes with daily activities.

Contact a clinician promptly for worsening pain, rapid enlargement, pus, spreading redness, fever, chills, or difficulty walking or sitting. Seek urgent help if you feel very unwell. A new Bartholin-area lump after menopause deserves assessment even when it is not painful.

Ask whether the lump is a cyst or abscess, whether testing is needed, how to manage pain, and what to do if it recurs. For a persistent or infected cyst, ask whether [Bartholin Cyst Marsupialisation](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/bartholin-cyst-marsupialisation/) could help create a lasting drainage opening.