17737 Bartholin Cyst

Overview

A Bartholin cyst is a small, fluid-filled lump that forms near the opening of the vagina. It happens when one of the two Bartholin glands — tiny glands that make a natural lubricating fluid — gets blocked and fluid builds up. Most Bartholin cysts are harmless and may go away on their own.

This is a fairly common condition. Research suggests about 2 in 100 women or people with a vagina will have a Bartholin cyst at some point in life, though many are small and never noticed.

Bartholin cysts mainly affect women and people with a vagina during their reproductive years, most commonly between ages 20 and 35. They are rare before puberty and less common after menopause.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A soft, painless lump on one side of the opening of the vagina
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the area
• Discomfort during walking, sitting, or sex
• Redness, swelling, or pain if the cyst becomes infected
• Fever or chills if an abscess develops

Symptoms in children

• Bartholin cysts are not typical in children before puberty, because the Bartholin glands are not fully active. Any lump near the vagina in a child should be checked by a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• Bartholin cysts are less common after menopause. However, any new lump in the genital area in an older adult should be checked promptly, as the cause may be different.

Causes

Main causes

• A blocked duct in one of the Bartholin glands, which normally releases lubricating fluid
• Fluid building up behind the blockage and forming a cyst
• An infection developing inside the blocked gland, causing a painful pus-filled abscess

Risk factors

• Being of reproductive age
• Having had a Bartholin cyst before
• Previous injury or irritation to the genital area
• Vaginal infections or sexually transmitted infections in some cases

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have a painful lump near the vaginal opening that is getting worse
• You have a fever, chills, or feel generally unwell
• The area is very red, swollen, or draining fluid
• You cannot sit or move comfortably because of the pain

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have a new lump that does not go away after a few days
• You have a lump that keeps coming back
• You feel any discomfort during sex or daily activities and want it checked

Diagnosis

A doctor can usually diagnose a Bartholin cyst by looking at the area and gently feeling the lump. They will also ask about your symptoms and any history of similar lumps.

Tests that may be done

• A gentle examination of the vaginal area
• A swab to test for infection if there is any discharge or pus
• Sometimes a small ultrasound scan or biopsy if the lump looks unusual or does not heal

What to expect at your appointment

The examination is quick — usually just a few minutes. You may feel a little pressure but it should not be painful. The doctor will talk you through what they see and explain whether any treatment is needed.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the size, symptoms, and whether the cyst is infected. A small, painless cyst often needs no treatment and may disappear by itself. A painful or infected cyst may need to be drained by a healthcare professional.

Self-care at home

• Apply a warm compress to the area for 10–15 minutes, three or four times a day
• Keep the area clean and dry, using gentle, unscented soap
• Take occasional warm baths to help the cyst drain naturally
• Avoid squeezing or pressing the lump
• Ask your pharmacist for advice about simple pain relief if needed

Medical treatments

If a cyst is large, painful, or infected, a doctor may open and drain it using a small cut after numbing the area. They may place a tiny rubber tube to help fluid continue to drain and stop it from coming back. If infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed, but they are not effective without drainage.

When is surgery considered?

For cysts that keep coming back, a minor procedure called marsupialisation is often recommended. The doctor makes a small opening and stitches the edges so fluid can keep draining. In very rare cases, the whole gland may be removed.

Living with this condition

For most people, a Bartholin cyst is a minor issue. With warm compresses and time, it often gets better on its own. Even if it becomes infected, treatment is straightforward and most people recover quickly.

Lifestyle tips

• Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear
• Avoid tight trousers or leggings that rub the area
• Pat the area dry gently after washing, rather than rubbing
• Do not use scented products or harsh soaps around the genital area

Diet and exercise

There is no special diet for a Bartholin cyst, but eating plenty of fibre and staying hydrated can help prevent constipation, which can make sitting more comfortable. Gentle exercise is fine, but stop if it causes pain.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It can feel embarrassing to talk about a lump in such a private area, but Bartholin cysts are common and nothing to be ashamed of. If you feel worried, self-conscious, or anxious, remember that your doctor sees this condition often and is there to help, not to judge.

Prevention

There is no guaranteed way to prevent a Bartholin cyst, but keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding tight clothing and harsh soaps, and not squeezing the area may help reduce the risk.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for Bartholin cysts.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for Bartholin cysts. However, noticing any new lump and having regular check-ups with your healthcare provider is a good way to look after your overall health.

Complications

If left untreated

• An infected cyst can turn into a painful abscess filled with pus
• The infection may spread to the surrounding skin or, rarely, into the bloodstream
• The cyst may come back after treatment

Long-term outlook

With proper care, the outlook is very good. Most Bartholin cysts heal quickly with simple treatment, and even those that return can usually be managed with a minor procedure. The risk of cancer in a Bartholin cyst is extremely low.

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