Health information to help you understand symptoms. It isn't a diagnosis.
Check symptoms

Lump near the vaginal opening

Also called: Bartholin's cyst

A lump near the vaginal opening is often a Bartholin's cyst, which can become infected. Warm baths help. A painful, swollen lump with fever needs care.

Common causesBartholin's cyst, ingrown hair
Usually serious?Usually not
Get checked ifPainful or with fever
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Bartholin's glands are on either side of the vaginal opening.

Cysts can become abscesses.

When to get medical care

Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayPainful swelling with fever.
See a doctor soonA new lump.

Causes

Causes include Bartholin's cysts, ingrown hairs, and infections.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause lump near the vaginal opening. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • Bartholin cystSee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    A lump on one side of the vaginal opening from a blocked gland.

What you can do at home

  • Take warm sitz baths.

Medicines

Drainage or antibiotics.

At the doctor

Diagnosed by exam.

Questions you may be asked

  • Pain

The exam

A pelvic exam.

Tests

  • Biopsy if over 40

Prevention

Not preventable.

  • Get checked early

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.