Quote Originally Posted by Technotart
The "lump" is likely an inflamed batholins gland - these can be VERY painful, and cycling increases the likelihood of them. Basically its a small gland near the southern end of the "goodies" . Trauma or long periods of direct pressure to the area can prevent it from draining normally. Infection can then set in and make a lady MISERABLE. In some cases they need to be drained by your friendly doc, np or pa and antibiotics are needed. Some resolve on their own.

Sitting or soaking in hot moist heat helps them to reduce - they can take weeks to completely resolve and some really do need antibiotics.

Signs of trouble include: extreme pain, redness and heat to the area, or milky discharge from the gland itself, Fever, a noticable cyst or increasing redness - all signs to head to the doc. These can be recurrent.

Unfortunately - bicycle saddles put pressure directly on these glands - shift positions frequently and spend the money on the better chamois is all I can recommend. Soak in a hot bath and cleanse the area with soap as soon as possible after riding to help open the glands up. Be sure and wash the shorts after every single wear.

Some women are just plain more prone to them. They are actually pretty common - even among non-cyclists.

Wow, thanks TechnoTart! I just ready your information to Joan, my GF. I nor she had ever heard of this gland or the problems associated with it for many women. Again, thanks!