Typically, Bartholin's cysts will go away on their own, but you can do a series of sitz baths or use heat compress on the affected area to encourage healing and drainage of the cyst.

How long does it take for a Bartholin cyst to go away?

Don't have sex while a Bartholin cyst is healing. If the cyst is infected, it may break open and start to heal on its own after 3 to 4 days. But if the cyst is painful, your doctor may drain it. You may also need to take antibiotics to treat the infection.

Can you have a Bartholin cyst for years?

You can have a cyst for years with no symptoms. But if a cyst gets infected by bacteria, it can grow and become red and painful. This is called an abscess. Opening and draining the cyst usually cures the infection.