Resolved question:
About a month ago, while performing a self-exam, I noticed a pinhead sized bump to the bottom left of my vaginal opening (in the Bartholin Gland region). It appears perfectly round, smooth, clearish, skin-coloured, and has no symptoms. What could it be? I have an appointment scheduled ASAP but I am feeling very anxious. I am 25 years old and very healthy otherwise. I have had the same partner for about four years, and had a normal pap one year ago.
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
OBGYN
Hello
Thanks for your query at DoctorSpring.com.
The photograph is not clear, there are bluish tints all around and the orientation is also not clear.
Please upload a clearer picture if possible. I would be glad to help you with my opinion.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Take care.
A more clear photo is attached. I can see the bump under the opening, to the right (right side on the photo, left on my body). However, I notice there is also a similar bump on the other side (glands maybe?). However, when I look at myself with a mirror the left side bump seems very prominent. I cannot see anything on the right. I am at a loss.
Thanks again
Hello again. There are no lumps or prominent bumps visible in the picture. What you are worried about might be normal Bartholin's glands opening, they are one on each side, small pinhole sized openings in the area of the Bartholin's gland. Since there is no pain, redness, itching or foul smelling discharge, there is no cause for concern. All the best. Please feel free to discuss further.
Can a Bartholin's Gland be visible with the naked eye? Do they swell from time to time? I received a pelvic exam today with no reported concerns, but it still boggles me that I noticed this.
Thanks again!
Hello again.
As I thought, there are no visible abnormalities in that area, as in the picture.
The Bartholin's glands openings are quite tiny, normally not visible, until a trained eye looks for them.
However, yes, they do swell up from time to time in certain women, due to infection and collected secretions.
During one of these phases, you might have noticed them.
Take care.