A Bartholin’s cyst is a common condition that can cause a lump, swelling or pain near the vaginal opening.
Bartholin’s glands are located on each side of the vaginal opening and help keep the area lubricated. When one of these glands becomes blocked, fluid can build up and form a cyst.
“The job of this gland is to keep the vulva moist,” said Adedayo Onibokun, MD, a gynecologist with Banner Health. The glands make fluid that helps lubricate the vulva and vagina. Sometimes, a gland can get blocked, leading to a Bartholin’s cyst.
If the cyst becomes infected, it can turn into a Bartholin’s abscess, which is more painful and may require medical treatment.
Sometimes, you can treat a Bartholin’s cyst at home, but other times you may need a medical procedure.
What is a Bartholin’s cyst?
A Bartholin’s cyst forms when one of the Bartholin’s glands becomes blocked. Fluid builds up and creates a lump under the skin.
If the cyst becomes infected, it can develop into a Bartholin’s abscess, which may cause more severe pain, swelling and discomfort.
What causes a Bartholin’s cyst?
A Bartholin’s cyst forms when the gland becomes blocked. This can happen due to:
- Infection
- Injury or irritation
- Thickened mucus blocking the duct
What are the symptoms of a Bartholin’s cyst?
If the cyst is small, you might not notice any symptoms. As it gets larger, symptoms may include:
- A soft lump near the vaginal opening
- Discomfort when sitting, walking or having sexual intercourse
- Pain that can range from mild to severe
- Swelling and tenderness
- A feeling of pressure or fullness
“Joint fluid can flow in and out of the cyst, causing it to change size and your symptoms to fluctuate,” Dr. Onibokun said.
Some cysts may be harder to detect, especially if they are deeper or smaller. These are called occult cysts and may only be found with imaging.
How long does a Bartholin’s cyst last?
Small cysts may go away on their own within a few days to weeks. Larger cysts or infected abscesses may last longer and often need treatment.
Can you pop a Bartholin’s cyst?
You should not try to pop or drain a Bartholin’s cyst yourself. Doing so can lead to infection, increased pain or recurrence.
Always see a health care provider for safe and effective treatment.
How to treat a Bartholin’s cyst at home
You can try these at-home treatments to help relieve symptoms:
- Apply warm compresses to reduce pain and swelling
- Take sitz baths (soaking in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day)
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Keep the area clean with mild soap and water
- Avoid scented products that may irritate the area
These methods may help the cyst drain naturally and improve comfort.
When should you see a doctor for a Bartholin’s cyst?
If your symptoms are not improving or are getting worse, it’s important to seek medical care.
You should see a provider if you have:
- Signs of infection such as redness, warmth or pus
- Increasing pain or swelling
- Difficulty walking or performing daily activities
- A cyst that is growing quickly
A health care provider can confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best treatment.
How are Bartholin’s cysts treated?
Your provider may recommend different treatment options based on your symptoms:
Drainage
A provider may drain the cyst using a needle or small incision to relieve pressure and pain. However, the cyst may return.
Balloon placement
A small catheter (balloon) may be placed in the gland to keep it open and allow continuous drainage.
Marsupialization
This minor surgical procedure creates a permanent opening so the cyst can continue to drain and is often used for recurring cysts.
Surgery
In some cases, the cyst or gland may be surgically removed, especially if it keeps coming back or causes complications.
After treatment, you may have mild discomfort, swelling or minor bleeding. Follow your provider’s instructions for care and attend follow-up visits.
Frequently asked questions about Bartholin’s cysts
Are Bartholin’s cysts dangerous?
Most are harmless, but infected cysts can become painful and may require treatment.
Can a Bartholin’s cyst go away on its own?
Yes, small cysts may resolve without treatment.
What does a Bartholin’s cyst feel like?
It may feel like a soft lump near the vaginal opening and may cause discomfort or pain.
When should I worry about a Bartholin’s cyst?
You should see a provider if it becomes painful, grows quickly or shows signs of infection.
The bottom line
A Bartholin’s cyst develops when a gland near the vaginal opening becomes blocked, causing fluid buildup, swelling and sometimes pain.
You may be able to treat a Bartholin’s cyst at home with warm compresses or sitz baths. If symptoms don’t improve or become severe, contact a Banner Health provider for evaluation and treatment.
