Bartholin's Gland Infection: What It Looks Like and What to Do

A Bartholin's gland infection starts when one of the tiny glands near the vaginal opening gets blocked or infected. You might notice a painless lump at first that can suddenly become very painful if it fills with fluid or pus. This page gives clear, practical steps to spot the problem, try safe home care, and know when to see a clinician.

Quick signs and first steps

Look for a soft or firm lump on one side of the labia near the vaginal opening. If it stays small and painless, it’s likely a cyst. If it grows, turns red, and becomes painful—especially when walking or sitting—that suggests an abscess (infected cyst). Other warning signs are fever, chills, or spreading redness.

First steps you can try at home: take warm sitz baths for 10–15 minutes several times a day to help the gland drain naturally. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease discomfort. Wear loose clothing and avoid sexual activity until the area heals. These measures help many small cysts and minor infections.

Treatment options and when to get help

If pain or swelling gets worse, see a healthcare provider. For an abscess, doctors often perform a minor in-office procedure to drain it—this provides fast relief. They may use a small catheter (Word catheter) to keep the gland draining for a few weeks; this lowers the chance the problem comes back. For recurrent issues, a procedure called marsupialization or, rarely, surgical removal of the gland may be recommended.

Antibiotics are not always needed unless the infection is spreading, you have signs of systemic infection, or lab tests show certain bacteria. If you’re over 40 and a lump appears, your provider may suggest tests to rule out other conditions, since new growths at that age need extra attention.

Here are practical tips to reduce risk and manage recurrence: practice gentle hygiene—clean the area with water and avoid harsh soaps; use condoms to lower infection risk; and see your provider early if a lump reappears. If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, act sooner—those conditions raise the chance an infection will worsen.

Severe signs—high fever, spreading redness, rapid swelling, or severe pain—require urgent care. Don’t try to squeeze or lance the cyst yourself; that can make the infection worse. A professional can drain the abscess safely and decide whether antibiotics or further treatment are needed.

If cost is a concern, ask your clinic about low-cost options, sample medications, or local clinics that offer sliding-scale fees. Affordable care exists, and early treatment often prevents bigger bills later. If you want more on inexpensive prescriptions and practical health tips, AffordableRxMeds covers safe buying options and treatment basics to help you stay informed.