Bartholin’s Cyst The painful lump near the vaginal opening you might mistake for a pimple What is a Bartholin’s cyst? Bartholin’s glands are two tiny glands located on each side of the vaginal opening. Their job is to produce lubricating fluid. A Bartholin’s cyst forms when the duct of one gland becomes blocked, causing fluid to collect and create a soft lump. If bacteria infect this trapped fluid, it turns into a Bartholin’s abscess, which is much more painful. Why does it happen? Blockage of the Bartholin gland duct Thick gland secretions Local irritation or minor trauma Bacterial infection (commonly E. coli, skin bacteria, or STI organisms) How does it feel or look? When it is just a cyst (not infected): Soft, round lump near vaginal opening (usually on one side) Often painless May feel uncomfortable while walking or sitting Skin usually looks normal Many women don’t notice small cysts at all. When it becomes infected (Bartholin’s abscess): Severe pain near vaginal opening Swelling and redness Warmth over the area Difficulty sitting or walking Pain during sex Fever may occur Lump becomes hard and very tender This stage needs medical care. Why it is often mistaken for a pimple Because it: Appears suddenly Looks like a small bump Is near hair-bearing skin Can be tender But unlike pimples: It comes from a gland deep under the skin It grows larger It doesn’t come to a head Squeezing can worsen infection What NOT to do Do not squeeze or pop it Do not apply harsh creams Do not ignore increasing pain Do not self-drain with needles This can push infection deeper. How is it treated? Treatment depends on size and infection. Small painless cyst: Warm sitz baths (10–15 minutes, 2–3 times daily) Often drains on its own Painful or infected abscess: Antibiotics (if infection suspected) Drainage by doctor Word catheter (small tube to keep duct open) Marsupialization for recurrent cysts Severe or repeated cases may need minor surgery. When should you see a doctor urgently? Severe pain or rapid swelling Fever Trouble walking or sitting Lump not improving after 2–3 days Recurrent cysts Age above 40 with a new lump (important to rule out rare gland cancer) Can it come back? Yes. Some women get recurrent Bartholin cysts, especially if ducts repeatedly block. Proper treatment greatly reduces recurrence. Simple takeaway Bartholin’s cyst is a blocked lubrication gland near the vaginal opening Usually painless unless infected Abscess causes severe pain and swelling Never squeeze Early treatment prevents complications Medical Disclaimer This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a gynecologist for diagnosis and treatment contact 91 7875278689