What’s this hard lump in my vagina?!

Did you know you have two little glands, called Bartholin glands, that sit at the entrance to the vagina? Their purpose is to secrete good oils and lubrication for the vagina and vulva. But sometimes these glands can get plugged up and feel like little lumps (one or both can be plugged). 

What causes the plugging? Natural clogs, friction or irritation can all cause this. The opening can seal off and secretions get stuck in the gland, forming a cyst. Cysts alone generally aren’t a problem until they become super large or infected. An infected Bartholin gland cyst would be super tender, appear red and may have some pus-like discharge. In these situations you would need to see a doctor. However, if the cyst just feels like a lump and is otherwise okay, you can try soaking in some warm water a couple of times a day. This helps the gland open up and drain naturally.