Gynaecology, by video or in person
Bartholin's Cyst and Abscess
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Bartholin's Cyst and Abscess
- A soft lump on one side, near the opening of the vagina
- One side of the labia looking larger or swollen
- Discomfort when walking, sitting or during sex
- A hot, red, very painful swelling if it becomes an abscess
- Pus or a smelly discharge from the lump
The Bartholin's glands are two small glands on either side of the vaginal opening that make fluid to keep the area moist. If the opening of a gland is blocked, the fluid builds up into a soft, usually painless lump called a Bartholin's cyst. If the cyst becomes infected, it turns into an abscess: a hot, very painful swelling that can make walking and sitting hard. Cysts are most common in women of childbearing age. Most small cysts cause no trouble and need no treatment, and they are not cancer. A new lump in this area after the menopause should always be checked.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A soft lump on one side, near the opening of the vagina
- One side of the labia looking larger or swollen
- Discomfort when walking, sitting or during sex
- A hot, red, very painful swelling if it becomes an abscess
- Pus or a smelly discharge from the lump
- Fever or feeling unwell with an abscess
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital now if you have a high fever with a painful swelling that is spreading fast, or you feel very unwell, faint or confused. See a doctor the same day if the lump becomes bigger and more painful over hours or days, or contains pus, as it may be an abscess that needs draining. A small, painless cyst can be discussed by video first, and the gynaecologist will say whether it needs examining. Do not squeeze or try to drain it yourself.
Treatment options
- Warm baths or warm cloths on the lump a few times a day, and simple painkillers
- Antibiotics for an infected cyst, sometimes after a swab test
- Drainage with a small tube (a Word catheter) left in for about four weeks
- Marsupialisation, a small permanent opening so fluid can drain, for a cyst that keeps coming back
- A biopsy for a new lump after the menopause
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Is a Bartholin's cyst cancer?
Almost never. Cancer of the gland is very rare. A new lump after the menopause is checked with a biopsy to be sure.
Will it come back after treatment?
It can. Marsupialisation or a catheter lowers the chance compared with simply cutting it open, which is why those methods are used.
Is it caused by poor hygiene or sex?
No. It is a blocked gland. Some abscesses are caused by bacteria, including sexually transmitted ones, so a swab may be taken, but a cyst is not a sign of anything you did.
Need Help?
A women's health specialist on a video call, who plans the tests and treatment and says when you need to be examined in person.
See a gynaecologist by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified gynaecology specialist near you.
Gynaecology in Lagos →Gynaecology in Abuja →Gynaecology in Port Harcourt →Gynaecology in Jos →Gynaecology in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Bartholin's cyst. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 3 November 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.