Cysts – sac-like lumps filled with fluid, air or other substances – can occur just about anywhere in your body, and are typically no cause for alarm. Bartholin's cysts – those which occur when the vagina's Bartholin's glands become obstructed – are no different. They are, in fact, relatively common, most often forming after childbirth or surgery.

The Barholin's glands are located on each side of the vaginal opening and under normal circumstances secrete the fluids that help lubricate the vagina. Bartholin's cysts are usually not painful, and you may not even notice if you have one. Issues arise if the fluids within the cyst becomes infected, forming an abscess.

Infections can occur in a brief span of days following the formation of a cyst. Symptoms include:

• A tender, painful lump near the vaginal opening
• Discomfort while walking or sitting
• Pain during intercourse
• Fever

If you think you may have a Bartholin's cyst, soak the lower part of your body in warm water (also known as a sitz bath) several times a day for a few days. This will often cause the cyst to burst and drain on its own.

If a sitz bath does not do the trick – and especially if you are over 40 when a vaginal lump appears it is likely an indicator of cancer – see your doctor. Your doctor will likely surgically drain the cyst.

The procedure is done under a local anesthetic, and involves making a small incision in the cyst allowing it to drain. The doctor will then place a small rubber tube – a catheter – into the incision to keep it open and allow for more complete drainage. The catheter may remain in place for up to six weeks.

If your cyst has become an abscess, or if testing reveals that you have a sexually transmitted infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

If your cyst recurs, your doctor may decide to do a procedure known as marsupialization. In this circumstance, stitches are made on each side of a drainage incision to create a permanent opening less than 1one quarter of an inch long. An inserted catheter may be placed to promote drainage for a few days after the procedure and help prevent recurrence.

In extreme circumstances when recurring cysts are not thwarted by any of these procedures, your doctor may advise for surgery to remove your Bartholin's gland.

Sources: The Mayo Clinic