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Warning-sign checks

Bartholin cyst or abscess: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Go to an emergency department for signs of a severe infection, such as confusion, fainting, marked weakness, trouble breathing, or rapidly worsening illness.

    These symptoms are not typical of a simple cyst.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical care for severe or rapidly worsening pain, fever, spreading redness, increasing swelling, difficulty urinating, or feeling significantly unwell.

    People who are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have poorly controlled diabetes should seek prompt advice about a painful or infected vulvar lump.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    If a Word catheter was placed, a follow-up visit may be needed to check its position and remove it at the appropriate time.

    Contact the treating clinic if the catheter falls out early.

    It may not always need to be replaced, but that decision depends on how long it was in place and whether the opening remains clear.

    Arrange routine follow-up if:

    • The lump does not improve or keeps returning
    • Pain or swelling remains after treatment
    • Drainage continues longer than expected
    • There is discomfort from a catheter or healing incision
    • A new lump develops, particularly at age 40 or older or after menopause
    • There may have been exposure to a sexually transmitted infection

The article also says

After a drainage procedure, follow the clinician's instructions for washing, bathing, activity, and sexual contact.

Mild drainage or spotting can occur while the area heals.

A pad or panty liner may be helpful.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Bartholin cyst or abscess. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.