Bartholin's Cyst vs. Ingrown Hair

Two common causes of uncomfortable bumps or lumps in the female genital area are Bartholin's cysts and ingrown hairs. Although you should not rely on self-diagnosis alone when dealing with your gynecologic health, understanding these two common problems may make you less anxious as you wait for your diagnosis and condition to resolve.

Facts

The Bartholin's glands are located on either side of the vaginal opening. When the opening to a Bartholin's gland becomes clogged, fluid builds up inside the gland, causing a cyst. If the cyst becomes infected, it is called an abscess.

Ingrown hairs result when a hair does not emerge properly from its follicle and grows into the surrounding skin. The term ingrown hair is often applied to hairs that do emerge from their follicle but then curve down to grow into the surrounding skin. Neither Bartholin's cysts or ingrown hairs are sexually transmitted diseases.

Identification

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Both Bartholin's glands and ingrown hairs can form painful bumps and can become infected. The key to determining which condition you have is often where the problem is located. Bartholin's cysts only occur in women and only where the Bartholin's glands are located. Ingrown hairs only occur where hair grows, and they may occur in men or women. You may need to see a physician to get an accurate diagnosis, and you should consult a physician if you suspect any type of infection.

Treatment

Warm, moist compresses may help relieve both Bartholin's cysts and ingrown hairs. The usual treatment for Bartholin's cysts is to create an opening so that the built-up fluid can drain; sometimes a small catheter is placed in the gland to facilitate drainage. In some cases, the gland may need to be surgically removed.

Ingrown hairs usually resolve with gentle exfoliation and normal hair growth, although at times, tweezers may be used to remove the hair. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if either a cyst or ingrown hair become infected.

Prevention

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The key to preventing both conditions is to practice proper hygiene, using a gentle cleanser in the genital area. Women should always wipe from front to back when using the bathroom to keep bacteria away from the vaginal area. Avoid feminine deodorant sprays and other similar products. Avoid tight-fitting underwear. Waxing the genital area may produce fewer ingrown hairs than shaving, and an electric razor may produce fewer ingrown hairs than shaving with a manual razor. When shaving the genital area, use a single-blade razor and shave in the direction of hair growth 1.

Sexual Activity

Ingrown hairs are typically no impediment to sexual activity unless they are infected, in which case you should avoid sexual activity until the infection is resolved. Bartholin's cysts can be tender and painful, in which case you should avoid sexual activity until they have healed. If you have any questions about when it is safe to resume sexual activity, ask your doctor.