Painful Bump around Labia : You might have Bartholin's Abscess

A Bartholin's abscess occurs when the duct of the Bartholin's gland becomes blocked and infected,

causing a painful swelling near the vaginal opening.

What is the Bartholin's Gland?

The Bartholin's glands are two small pea-sized glands

located at the 4 and 8 o'clock positions

near the vaginal opening.

They produce mucus to lubricate the vagina,

helping make sexual activity more comfortable.

Causes of Bartholin's Abscess

• Blockage of the Bartholin's duct, leading to fluid build-up and cyst formation

• Bacterial infection in the cyst, commonly E. coli or Staphylococcus aureus

• Sexually transmitted infections such as Gonorrhea or Chlamydia

• Friction, local inflammation, or poor hygiene can increase infection risk

References: NCBI, American Family Physician

Symptoms of a Bartholin's Abscess

• Painful lump on one side of the vaginal opening
• Pain while walking, sitting, or during sexual intercourse
• Possible fever or general discomfort
• Tender, soft swelling that may contain pus

Treatment Options

1. Conservative Care

• If the cyst is small and painless, observation may be enough
• Sitz bath 2-3 times daily to reduce swelling and help drainage
• Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen

2. Medical Treatment

• Word catheter A small balloon catheter inserted after drainage, left for 4-6 weeks
• Marsupialization Surgical opening of the cyst and suturing edges to create permanent drainage
• Sclerotherapy Injection of agents such as alcohol or silver nitrate to destroy the cyst lining
• Antibiotics Prescribed if there is cellulitis or suspected STI
• Gland excision Considered in women over 40 or with frequent recurrences

Summary Table