Vagina.how

symptom patterns / 4 minute visual guide

A lump near the opening

A tender or painless lump near one side of the vaginal opening can have several causes. One possibility is a blocked Bartholin gland, which may form a cyst or become infected.

The one idea to keepLocation helps, but a persistent, painful, growing, or infected lump needs direct examination.
A fully clothed patient brings a symptom timeline to a clinician who explains pelvic orientation with a neutral model.
Original editorial illustration. Not clinical evidence or a diagnostic image.
01

What people notice

A small lump may be painless. A larger or infected swelling may make sitting, walking, or sex uncomfortable and can become very painful.

  • Often near one side of the opening
  • Pain can change quickly
  • Not every lump is a Bartholin cyst
02

When to get help

Seek prompt advice for rapidly increasing pain, pus, fever, spreading redness, feeling unwell, or a lump that persists or appears later in life.

  • Do not squeeze or puncture it
  • Do not apply harsh acne products
  • Ask what follow-up is needed
03

What an appointment may involve

A clinician may look and gently examine the area. Treatment depends on size, pain, infection, recurrence, age, and the actual cause.

  • Ask before each touch
  • Discuss pain control
  • Mention prior episodes

Sources behind this guide

NHSBartholin’s CystACOGDisorders of the Vulva

Evidence checked July 15, 2026. Independent clinician review is still required before public launch.

Continue exploring

symptom patterns

When vulvar pain keeps returning