Finding a new bump or lump in the vulvar or vaginal area can be concerning, but it is a common experience. These bumps, which can appear on the labia, near the vaginal opening, or on the vulva, have a wide range of causes. While some bumps can be a sign of a transmissible infection, most are benign and result from simple skin irritation or blocked glands. Understanding the characteristics and origins of these lumps helps determine whether a bump is harmless or requires medical attention.
Common Skin Irritations and Benign Causes
Lumps appearing on the external genitalia (vulva) are often superficial and related to the function of the skin and hair follicles. Ingrown hairs are a frequent cause, typically appearing after shaving or waxing. They occur when a hair curls back and grows into the skin, creating a small, red, sometimes painful bump with a pus-filled center. Mild cases often resolve on their own as the hair surfaces.
The vulva contains structures often mistaken for abnormal growths. Fordyce spots are visible sebaceous glands, appearing as small, painless, yellowish-white or pale red spots just beneath the skin. Skin tags are also common, appearing as small, soft flaps of extra skin that form where skin rubs against itself or clothing.
Contact dermatitis results from a skin reaction to an irritant or allergen. This causes itchy, swollen, or rash-like bumps, often triggered by new soaps, hygiene products, or tight clothing. Removing the offending product typically leads to swift resolution. Unlike deeper cysts, these surface irritations clear up within a few days or weeks.
Glandular Issues and Cysts
Some vulvar bumps originate deeper within specialized glands and ducts. They differ from surface irritations because they form due to blockages rather than external friction. Bartholin’s cysts are common examples, arising from the Bartholin glands located on either side of the vaginal opening.
These glands produce fluid that lubricates the labia; a cyst forms when the duct is obstructed, causing fluid accumulation. A Bartholin’s cyst may start as a small, painless lump, but it can grow significantly, causing noticeable swelling. If the cyst becomes infected, it progresses into a painful abscess—a tender, swollen, and hot collection of pus.
Sebaceous cysts develop when an oil gland on the vulva is blocked with sebum. They present as firm, movable lumps under the skin and are usually painless unless irritated or infected. Cysts are encapsulated sacs of material under the skin, persisting longer than a pimple, which is temporary inflammation of a hair follicle.
Infectious and Viral Causes
Bumps caused by transmissible pathogens often present with unique characteristics. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection frequently leads to genital warts. These warts are typically painless, flesh-colored growths that may be flat, small, or cluster together to form a rough, cauliflower-like appearance.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) causes genital herpes, manifesting initially as small, painful, fluid-filled blisters. Before lesions appear, a person may experience tingling, itching, or burning. The blisters eventually rupture, leaving behind shallow, tender ulcers or sores that take time to heal.
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection causing small, firm, dome-shaped papules, often 1 to 5 millimeters in diameter. A defining feature is a tiny central indentation or dimple (umbilication). While benign and self-resolving, they are highly contagious and spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Primary syphilis presents initially as a sore called a chancre. This typically appears as a single, firm, painless, button-shaped ulcer.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
While most vulvar bumps are harmless and resolve without intervention, certain symptoms warrant prompt evaluation for diagnosis. Any new lump that persists for several weeks without clearing up should be checked, especially if it is increasing in size or changing significantly in appearance.
Immediate medical attention is necessary for bumps accompanied by “red flag” symptoms suggesting a serious condition or active infection. These symptoms include:
- Severe or rapidly increasing pain.
- A high temperature or fever.
- Swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin area.
- Non-healing ulcers or sores that bleed easily.
- Any bump associated with an unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
Seeking a diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment and can rule out rare conditions like vulvar cancer.