Most vaginal bumps are harmless, but some might signal an infection. Other causes may include cysts, ingrown hairs, and, in rare cases, vaginal cancer. Vaginal bumps typically resolve and go away on their own. You might require oral or topical antibiotics if you have an infection.
It's common for people to mix up the vagina with the vulva. The vagina is an internal canal that connects the uterus to the outside of the body. The vulva is the external female genitals: the clitoris, labia, and vaginal opening.
Itchy, rash-like, or swollen skin surrounding bumps might be contact dermatitis. There are two types of contact dermatitis:
- Allergic contact dermatitis: This is an allergic reaction, which typically starts 24-48 hours after you come into contact with an allergen.Allergens you may use near your vaginal area include fabric materials, dyes, fragranced soap, douches, and preservatives.
- Irritant contact dermatitis: Bumps near the vaginal area may occur if your skin adversely reacts to friction with an irritant. Some of the most common irritants that cause contact dermatitis include soap, detergent, fabric softener, and hair dyes.
Identifying and avoiding irritants and allergens can prevent and treat contact dermatitis. A healthcare provider may order allergy tests to figure out the cause of your symptoms.
2. Cysts
Small bumps near the vaginal opening may be cysts, or sacs filled with air, fluid, pus, or other bodily substances. Cysts can be as small as a pea or as large as an orange.
One type of cyst is called a Bartholin's cyst:
- Bartholin's cysts: This type of cystforms in two small glands called the Bartholin glands on either side of the opening that secretes a fluid to lubricate the vagina. Fluid can build up in a Bartholin gland, which results in a blockage. These cysts can become swollen and painful.
Most other cysts do not cause symptoms. Some people havediscomfort during sexor tampon insertion. Consult a healthcare provider if you notice any mass near your vagina, no matter your symptoms.
Folliculitis causes small, red bumps that can occur anywhere on your skin where you have hair if something clogs or infects a hair follicle. Staphylococcus(staph) bacteria is a common cause of folliculitis. These bacteria can enter and clog hair follicles when you shave, wax, and wear tight, sweaty workout leggings or dirty underwear. Fungi and viruses may also cause folliculitis.
See a healthcare provider if you frequently have folliculitis or your symptoms last longer than three days or worsen. People witha weak immune systemmay have severe symptoms.
4. Ingrown Hair
You might notice ingrown hair, or hair that grows back into your skin, if you shave or wax your pubic hair. Ingrown hairs often look like small, inflamed bumps that burn or itch. You may be more prone to ingrown hairs if you have curly or coarse hair.
Shave in the direction your hair grows, use shaving cream, and do not shave your skin dry to prevent ingrown hairs. Make sure you change your razor blades often, and never use a dull razor.
Certainsexually transmitted infections(STIs) can cause bumps near the vaginal area:
- Herpes: Genital herpes might cause sore-like blisters that can break and become painful. Sores can come back if you have an outbreak. There's no cure for herpes sores. Medications help reduce symptoms and the risk of spreading the virus.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): This infection causes genital warts, typically as one or a group of small bumps around the vaginal area. Warts may appear flat or look like cauliflower. There's no cure for HPV, but creams, chemicals, or surgery can treat genital warts. Vaccineshelp prevent HPV. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the HPV vaccine to people aged 9-26 years old. The vaccine can also reduce your risk of cervical cancer.
- Molluscum contagiosum: This skin infection is not an STI. It's a virus that spreads through physical or sexual contact or objects like clothing or towels. Creams, oral medications, and physical removal can treat molluscum contagiosum. The virus only affects the skin's top layer, so it does not stay in your body after the lesions are gone.
Be sure to visit a healthcare provider right away if there's a possibility you contracted an STI. Avoid sexual activity until you get test results and treatment if needed.
6. Skin Tags
A skin tag is a small growth of skin that's typically benign (non-cancerous) and not painful. Skin tags can occur anywhere on your body, usually on the armpits, neck, and trunk. You may also find skin tags near the vaginal area. Skin tags might become irritated if your clothing and underwear repeatedly rub against them.
Although rare, a bump near your vaginal area might be a sign of vaginal cancer. Other symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain. This type of cancer is more likely to occur in people aged 60 years and older and those who have had HPV. You also might be at risk if you have had a Pap smear that found abnormal cells in your cervix, uterus, or vagina.
Treatment Options
You can often treat benign vaginal bumps at home. It's essential to clean your vulva with warm water and then gently pat dry. Avoid douching, using scented hygiene products, and wearing tight clothing and underwear.
Other treatments can vary based on what's causing the bump. A healthcare provider may recommend:
- Antibiotics: These treat bacterial infections, such as a Bartholin's cyst or severe folliculitis.
- Chemotherapy and radiation: These treatments use medicine or high-energy particles or waves to get rid of cancer cells.
- Moisturizer: Use a moisturizing cream if you have contact dermatitis. A healthcare provider may prescribe a high-strength cream or ointment.
- Surgery: A healthcare provider can surgically remove or drain cysts. Surgery can also remove a cancerous lump.
- Warm compress: Folliculitis mostly resolves on its own, but hot and moist compresses can help.
It's important to see a healthcare provider anytime you feel a bump or lump near your vaginal area. They can examine the area and use diagnostic tests to figure out what's causing the mass. A healthcare provider can also advise treatment and further steps if necessary.
Contact a healthcare provider if you have symptoms of an STI or vaginal cancer, such as:
- Abdominal (belly) pain
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding, discharge, or odor
- Fever
- Itching or redness near the vaginal area
- Painful urination or sex
A Quick Review
Folliculitis, eczema, cysts, STIs, and more may cause bumps in the vaginal area. Most are harmless, but see a healthcare provider if you notice any vaginal bumps. Many vaginal bumps will not require treatment, but ruling out infections and cancer is important.
