Do not try to pop, squeeze, lance, or drain a Bartholin cyst yourself
Avoid using needles, blades, or other tools on it
Keep the area clean with gentle washing and dry it well
Use warm sitz baths for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day
Apply a warm compress to the area
Wear loose, breathable underwear and clothing
Avoid sex if it is painful
Use over-the-counter pain relief only as directed on the label if you can take it safely
Seek medical care if it is very painful, enlarging, red, hot, draining pus, or you have fever
Seek urgent care if you have severe pain, trouble walking, or signs of spreading infection
See a clinician for proper drainage or treatment if it does not improve