What Is The Cause Of A Lump Near The Clitoris?

Hello, This sounds like a Bartholin s cyst. A Bartholin s cyst is formed when a Bartholin s gland is blocked, causing a fluid-filled cyst to develop. A Bartholin s cyst is not an infection, although it can be caused by an infection, inflammation, or physical blockage (mucus or another impediment) to the Bartholin s ducts (tubes which lead from the glands to the vulva). If infection sets in, the result is a Bartholin s abscess. If the infection is severe or repeated, a surgical procedure known as marsupialization may be required to stop further recurrences. Bartholin s cysts are most likely to occur in women of child-bearing age. When they occur in women over 40, sometimes the doctor will recommend a biopsy just to be sure there are no cancer cells present, even though cancer of the Bartholin s gland is extremely rare. A Bartholin s cyst can grow from the size of a pea to the size of an egg. Cysts are not sexually transmitted. There is no known reason for their development and infection is rare. However, even with an abscess, a bacterial infection or STD is not the cause. Often, no treatment is necessary, since Bartholin s cysts are often asymptomatic. Small, asymptomatic cysts simply be observed over time to see if they grow. For cases where intervention is necessary, a catheter may be placed to drain the cyst, or the cyst may be surgically opened to create a permanent pouch (marsupialization). Intervention has a success rate of 85%, regardless of the method used, for the achievement of absence of swelling and discomfort and the appearance of a freely draining duct. Catheterization is a minor procedure and can be performed in an office setting by a physician. A small tube (a catheter) is inserted into the cyst and inflated to keep it in place. The catheter stays in place for 2 to 4 weeks, draining the fluid and causing a normal gland opening to form, after which the catheter is removed. The catheters do not generally impede normal activity, but sexual intercourse is generally abstained from while the catheter is in place. Cysts may also be opened permanently, a method called marsupialization, in which an opening to the gland is formed with stitches which hold the secretion channel open. If the cyst is infected, it may break open and start to heal on its own after 3 to 4 days. Nonprescription pain medication such as ibuprofen relieves pain, and a sitz bath may increase comfort. Warm compresses can speed healing. Disposable chemical heating pads, such as those used inside gloves to keep hands warm, can be worn inside clothing and last for several hours, providing long-lasting relief. If a Bartholin gland abscess comes back several times, the gland and duct can be surgically removed. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr Ivan R. Rommstein, General Surgeon