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Published on: 8/20/2026

What are the possible causes of a swollen lump between the scrotum and anus, and how is it treated?

A swollen lump between the scrotum and anus (the perineum) is most commonly caused by a perianal abscess, a pilonidal cyst, or a benign sebaceous cyst. Symptoms often include pain, redness, warmth, and tenderness, especially when sitting. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and can range from warm compresses and antibiotics to minor surgical drainage for infected abscesses.

Because a perineal lump can signal anything from a minor cyst to a serious infection needing prompt drainage, guessing wrong could delay care or cause unnecessary worry. A free, instant online symptom check can help you identify likely causes based on your specific symptoms and guide your next steps—whether that's home care or seeing a doctor today.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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When you notice a lump in the area between your scrotum and anus, there are a few things that might be happening. One possibility is that it could be a perianal abscess, which is an infection that causes a pocket of pus to form in that area. This can make the lump feel painful, red, and warm.

Sometimes, this region can develop a cyst, which is a small, benign sac filled with fluid or other material; in some cases, the cyst might become infected. Other rare causes include developmental cysts that form between the sphincters.

If the lump is tender, red, or growing in size, it might need treatment right away. For an abscess, home treatments might include warm compresses to help the area drain naturally and ease some pain. However, if the infection is severe, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or perform a minor procedure to drain the pus and clear the infection.

A benign, non-infected cyst that causes discomfort might be removed by a doctor through a simple surgical procedure. If you're experiencing these symptoms, you can check your symptoms to better understand what might be causing them and determine the best next steps for care with a healthcare professional.

(References)

  • Lake E, Engledow A, Cohen C. An unusual perineal swelling: a cyst between the sphincters. J Surg Case Rep. 2010 Nov 1;2010(9):2. doi: 10.1093/jscr/2010.9.2. PMID: 24946354; PMCID: PMC3649172.

  • Parnham AS, Freeman A, Kirkham A, Muneer A. An unusual swelling in the male perineum. BMJ Case Rep. 2015 Jan 22;2015:bcr2014206199. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2014-206199. PMID: 25612751; PMCID: PMC4307079.

  • Sigmon DF, Emmanuel B, Tuma F. Perianal Abscess. [Updated 2023 Jun 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

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