A ‘vaginal boil’ is an informal term for a furuncle or abscess that forms on the vulva (labia or pubic area), as the inner vaginal canal lacks the hair follicles where these lesions originate. This painful, pus-filled infection causes swelling and discomfort. While the appearance of blood can be alarming, it usually accompanies the release of pressure and the beginning of the healing process. The pain often subsides after this drainage occurs.
The Anatomy of a Boil: Causes and Types
A boil, or furuncle, is a deep infection of a single hair follicle, commonly caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. These bacteria, which often live harmlessly on the skin, can enter the follicle through a tiny break in the skin, such as a nick from shaving or a minor abrasion. Once inside, the bacteria multiply, leading to an inflammatory response that produces pus—a centralized collection of dead tissue, white blood cells, and bacteria.
The accumulation of this infected material creates a tense, pus-filled core beneath the skin’s surface. Factors like friction from tight clothing, excessive moisture, or ingrown hairs can increase the risk of infection. This localized infection should be distinguished from a Bartholin’s cyst, which involves the blockage and infection of a Bartholin’s gland located deeper near the vaginal opening. A cluster of boils forming a connected area of infection is called a carbuncle, which is a more severe condition.
Why Boils May Bleed and What to Expect
Bleeding occurs when the skin overlying the abscess ruptures due to the intense internal pressure created by the growing pus collection. This rupture is a natural part of the boil’s life cycle and is often accompanied by the immediate release of pus. The tissue surrounding an active infection is inflamed and fragile, meaning the rupture of the skin also breaks the tiny blood vessels, or capillaries, near the surface.
The discharge that appears is typically a mix of thick, yellowish or whitish pus, clear or slightly pinkish fluid, and a small amount of blood. This minor presence of blood is normal and indicates that the drainage has begun, which relieves the pain and pressure. A small amount of dark, old blood mixed in with the pus is not a concern, as it is a byproduct of the ruptured, inflamed tissue.
A small trickle or spot of blood mixed with the discharge is expected; however, continuous, bright-red bleeding that soaks a bandage is not. If the flow of blood is heavy or does not slow down significantly shortly after the initial rupture, it may indicate that a larger blood vessel has been damaged. The drainage may also have a foul odor due to the presence of bacteria and necrotic tissue.
Immediate Home Care and Relief Measures
The goal of home care is to encourage the boil to drain naturally and manage discomfort. Applying a warm compress is the most effective home remedy, as the heat promotes blood flow to the area and facilitates natural rupture. The compress, such as a clean washcloth soaked in warm water, should be applied for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day.
Strict hygiene is important once the boil begins to drain. The area should be gently washed with mild soap and water, and the open lesion should be covered with a clean, dry bandage to absorb the discharge and prevent the spread of bacteria. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be used to alleviate tenderness and inflammation.
Never squeeze, prick, or attempt to pop the boil. This action can push the infection deeper into the tissue, increase the risk of scarring, and potentially worsen bleeding.
Red Flags: When to Seek Professional Medical Help
While most boils resolve with home care, certain symptoms signal the need for a healthcare provider’s intervention. Seek medical help if the boil does not show signs of draining or improving within five to seven days of starting home treatment. Boils that are larger than a half-inch in diameter, or those that rapidly increase in size, require professional incision and drainage (I&D).
Signs of a spreading infection, known as cellulitis, are a red flag. These include a fever or chills, red streaks radiating outward from the boil, or redness and swelling that extend far beyond the immediate lesion. Boils located near the anus or rectum should also be evaluated promptly due to the higher risk of complicated infection. Individuals who experience frequent, recurring boils may have an underlying condition like Hidradenitis Suppurativa, which requires specialized medical management.