You'll probably feel a release of pressure when a cyst or abscess pops. A small surgical cut can completely drain the abscess. This provides the greatest relief and the fastest recovery. This procedure can be done under local anesthesia in a doctor's office. A catheter (tube) may be used to continue to allow draining while the area heals.

Call your doctor if you find a painful, swollen lump on the labia near the vaginal opening and that does not improve with 2-3 days of home treatment, if pain is severe and interferes with normal activity or if you develop a fever higher than 100.4.