The Bartholin’s glands are very small glands found inside the vaginal lips (labia). The glands make fluid to help keep the vagina moist. When the opening of a Bartholin’s gland becomes blocked, the gland may swell and form a cyst. The cyst may vary in size from small to large (1 to 3 cm). It may feel like a firm lump in the labia.
Treatment depends on the size of the cyst, if it causes symptoms, and if it’s infected. Small or uninfected cysts generally don’t need treatment. Large cysts and those that are painful or infected will likely need to be treated. In these cases, the cyst may need to be opened with a cut (incision) and then drained. If you're over age 40, your healthcare provide may advise that the cyst be biopsied to rule out vulvar cancer. This means that a small piece of cyst tissue will be removed and checked under a microscope.
Home care
Your cyst does not need any treatment at this time. If you have some mild pain, you may be advised to take sitz baths. For this, you soak in a bath with a few inches of warm water, a few times a day, or as directed. This may help the cyst to rupture and drain in a few days. You don't need to restrict any activities, such as sex.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.
When to get medical advice
Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:
-
Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your provider
-
Increased redness, pain, swelling, or foul-smelling drainage from the cyst or the area around it
-
Cyst grows larger or causes symptoms that bother you
Featured in
Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Tennille Dozier RN BSN RDMS
Date Last Reviewed: 10/01/2024
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Related Articles
Bartholin’s Cyst: Common Treatments
When the opening of a Bartholin's gland becomes blocked, the gland may swell and form a cyst. Treatment depends on various factors, including the size of the cyst, whether it causes symptoms, and whether it's infected.
Understanding Bartholin Cyst and Abscess
The Bartholin glands are on the sides of the vaginal opening. If a tube (duct) in one of these glands becomes blocked, it can cause a cyst or abscess.
Pilonidal Cyst (Not Infected)
A pilonidal cyst is a swelling that starts under the skin on the sacrum near the tailbone. It may look like a small dimple. Because it often has an opening to the surface, it may become infected with normal skin bacteria.
Infected Epidermoid Cyst (Incision and Drainage)
You have an epidermoid cyst. This is a small, painless lump under your skin. Your cyst became inflamed or infected and your healthcare provider wanted to drain it. Here's how to care for your wound at home.
