I had a Bartholin's Gland Cyst for about a month, tried many things but the pain became too much and I decided it was time to go to the doctor. I found this forum the evening before my doctor appointment and I'm so glad I did.

After reading many of the home methods I decided to try something of my own even though I didnt have the exact things others mentioned I was willing to try anything to reduce pain and try to help in any way. I made a list of things others suggested with the intent to go shopping for it when morning came. As silly as this may sound, it did work. I wet a tea bag with hot water and kept it pretty moist, I also put some olive oil on some cotton. I put the tea bag directly on the cyst followed with the cotton. Within moments there was pain relief so I figured I would leave it on overnight. I wore a pad that night to catch any excess tea or oil from making a mess. I also took some advil (Ibuprofen) as I read it will help reduce swelling and maybe a bit with the pain.

The next morning, I wasn't expecting anything, I was just so pleased I was able to sleep and close my legs without irritation or pain from any pressure on the cyst. I removed the cotton and tea bag. While gently wiping the area clean with water, I didnt even feel it but the cyst opened. It was disgusting but pretty much painless, still sensitive but nothing like the pain I had before. Small amounts of pressure around the area allowed me to drain it. I was so happy, relieved and shocked a tea bag and some olive oil had this effect after 1 night. My husband was laughing at me but I didnt care, to have the pain almost eliminated after moments of putting on the tea bag and olive oil, he could laugh all he wanted, it was helping.

I did get some witch hazel which is a natural astringent and tea tree oil which is a natual antiseptic. Combined this on some cotton and placed directly on the area, it doesn't hurt at all anymore but its still sensitive and healing. Dilute the tea tree oil 100% is too strong for such a sensitive area. I will continue to do a combination of everything even though its gone for a few days at least just to be sure its fully drained and uncloged.

Needless to say I didn't go to the doctor, I'm glad I didnt have to get it lanced or some of the other horrible and painful things others have been through.

FYI: For those interested in details... The tea was Twinings of London "The Lady Grey" - its a black tea with bergamot, orange and lemon. Extra-Virgin Olive-Oil , Organic by Newman's Own. Tea Tree Oil 100% pure by Thursday Plantation and T.N. Dickinsons Witch Hazel.

I hope this can help someone else.