Bartholin's cyst

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A small fluid-filled sac near the opening of the vagina.

Description

A backup of fluid is likely the cause of a Bartholin’s cyst. Glands on each side of the vaginal opening release fluid that helps keep the vagina moist. The opening of a gland can become blocked, causing fluid to back up into the gland.

Overview

A Bartholin’s cyst can cause a lump near the opening of the vagina. Most often, the cyst is painless. If the cyst becomes infected, the infection may cause tenderness, pain or fever.

Symptoms

Treatment for a Bartholin’s cyst depends on the size of the cyst, how painful it is and whether it is infected. Treatments may include soaking the cyst in warm water, surgery to drain the cyst and medicines to clear an infection.

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