Fluid filled swelling in the bartholin's glands which lubricate the vagina

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Fluid-filled swelling (cyst) in the Bartholin's glands, which lubricate the vagina.

Bartholin's cysts are common. Fluid may accumulate when the opening of the Bartholin's gland becomes obstructed due to an infection or injury.

The Bartholin's glands are located on each side of the vaginal opening. These glands secrete fluid that helps lubricate the vagina.

Sometimes the openings of these glands become obstructed, causing fluid to back up into the gland. The result is relatively painless swelling called a Bartholin's cyst. If the fluid within the cyst becomes infected, you may develop a collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue (abscess).

Symptoms

If you have a small, noninfected Bartholin's cyst, you may not notice it. If the cyst grows, you might feel a lump or mass near your vaginal opening. Although a cyst is usually painless, it can be tender.

A full-blown infection of a Bartholin's cyst can occur in a matter of days. If the cyst becomes infected, you may experience:

A tender, painful lump near the vaginal opening

Discomfort while walking or sitting

Pain during intercourse

Fever