Bartholin Cyst – Symptoms and Causes

Overview

Bartholin glands are small organs located on each side of the vaginal opening. These glands make fluid that helps keep the vagina moist.

Sometimes, the openings of these glands get blocked. When this happens, fluid builds up in the gland and forms a lump called a Bartholin cyst. These cysts are usually not painful at first.

However, if bacteria enter the cyst, it can become infected. An infected cyst is called an abscess. Abscesses are red, painful, and filled with pus.

Bartholin cysts and abscesses are common issues. Treatment options depend on three main factors:

• The size of the cyst
• How much pain it causes
• Whether it’s infected

Simple home care works for many women. Others may need a doctor to drain the cyst. If there’s an infection, antibiotics may help treat the problem.

Symptoms

Bartholin’s cysts may go unnoticed when they are small and not infected. You might only become aware of one when it grows larger and creates a noticeable lump near your vaginal opening.

These cysts are typically painless, though some tenderness may occur. If the cyst becomes infected, symptoms develop rapidly—often within days.

An infected Bartholin’s cyst (abscess) may cause:

• A painful, tender lump at the vaginal opening
• Discomfort when walking or sitting
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Fever

It’s worth noting that these cysts or abscesses usually affect only one side of the vaginal opening, not both sides simultaneously.

When to See a Doctor

If you have a painful lump near your vaginal opening that doesn’t improve after 2–3 days of warm sitz baths, contact your healthcare provider. If you’re experiencing severe pain, don’t wait—schedule an appointment immediately.

Women over 40 should promptly report any new lumps in the vaginal area to their doctor. While uncommon, these lumps could indicate a serious condition, including cancer.

When to Seek Immediate Care:

• Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
• Fever, along with the lump
• Increasing redness or swelling
• Discharge from the lump

Early evaluation leads to faster diagnosis and more effective treatment.

Causes

Bartholin’s cysts form when fluid backs up in the gland. This backup occurs when the opening of the gland becomes obstructed. The blockage might result from:

• Injury to the area
• Infection
• Inflammation

When a cyst becomes infected, it can develop into an abscess. Several bacteria can cause these infections, including:

• E. coli bacteria
• Bacteria responsible for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly:
  • Gonorrhea
  • Chlamydia

The blocked gland collects fluid that would normally drain, leading to swelling and potential discomfort.

Problems That May Occur

Bartholin’s cysts or abscesses sometimes return after treatment. This means you might need to be treated more than once for the same issue.

Women who have had one cyst or abscess should watch for signs of another one forming in the future.

Prevention

There is no way to prevent a Bartholin’s cyst completely. However, you can take steps to reduce the risk of infection.

Using condoms during sexual activity is particularly important for protection. Good hygiene habits also play a key role in preventing cysts from becoming infected and developing into abscesses.