Overview
Small cysts may cause no symptoms.
A new lump after 40 needs a check.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Lump near the vaginal opening
- Very painful, hot, swollen lump at the vaginal opening
Less common
- Pain with sitting or walking
When to get medical care
Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayFever with a red, very painful lump.
See a doctor soonAny new lump.
Causes
Blocked gland.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Ages 20 to 30
Diagnosis
A clinician examines.
Treatment
Soak and watch.
Self-care
- Sit in a warm bath several times a day
- Use pain relievers
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Pain and swelling | Ask first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems. |
| Antibiotics | Infection | Prescription. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Drainage for an abscess.
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to a gynecologist (OB-GYN).
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Treatable.
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.