Bartholin’s Gland Cyst
A Bartholin’s gland cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that forms when one of the Bartholin’s glands—located on each side of the vaginal opening—becomes blocked. These cysts are usually painless when small, but they can grow and cause discomfort, pressure, or difficulty sitting or walking. If the cyst becomes infected, it can form an abscess, which often causes severe pain and requires urgent treatment.
What is it?
A Bartholin’s gland cyst forms when the duct that drains the gland becomes blocked, allowing fluid to accumulate. These glands normally produce lubrication for the vaginal opening. The blockage may result from inflammation, infection, or friction. Cysts can vary in size from very small to several centimeters and may cause discomfort during walking, sitting, or sexual activity.
If bacteria enter the blocked gland, an abscess can develop, which is often painful and may cause redness, swelling, or fever. Imaging is not always required but may help confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions when the appearance is unclear.
Important to Know
Small Bartholin’s cysts often cause no symptoms and may resolve on their own. Larger cysts or abscesses may require drainage to relieve symptoms. Recurrences are common, and some individuals may need procedures to prevent the cyst from returning.
Red flag symptoms include severe pain, fever, rapid swelling, or difficulty sitting or walking—these may indicate an abscess. Postmenopausal individuals with a new Bartholin’s mass should be evaluated carefully to rule out rare gland tumors. Follow-up may be recommended for recurrent cases or atypical findings.