The appearance of vulvar bumps often raises concerns about yeast infections. While yeast infections are frequent and can lead to significant discomfort, their direct link to distinct vulvar bumps is often misunderstood. This article clarifies typical yeast infection symptoms and explores other potential causes of vulvar bumps.
Yeast Infections and Their Symptoms
Yeast infections, or vulvovaginal candidiasis, occur from an overgrowth of Candida fungus, typically Candida albicans, which naturally lives in the body. This imbalance causes uncomfortable symptoms. Typical signs include intense itching and a burning sensation in and around the vagina and vulva. There might also be noticeable redness, swelling, and irritation of the vulvar skin.
A characteristic symptom is a thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, usually with little odor. While yeast infections primarily cause inflammation and irritation, severe cases can result in small cuts or tiny cracks in the vulvar skin due to intense itching and scratching. These minor skin breaks, along with localized swelling and redness, might be perceived as “bumps” or small papules. However, distinct, firm, or large raised lesions are not primary symptoms of a yeast infection.
Common Causes of Vulvar Bumps
Vulvar bumps can arise from various conditions, many unrelated to yeast infections. Distinguishing between these causes is important for proper management. Some common benign skin conditions can manifest as vulvar bumps. For instance, folliculitis involves inflamed hair follicles, often appearing as small, red bumps or pus-filled pimples, especially in areas where hair grows or has been shaved.
Ingrown hairs can also cause painful, raised bumps when a hair curls back into the skin. Similarly, sebaceous cysts are small, non-cancerous lumps that form under the skin due to blocked sebaceous glands. Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths that can appear in skin folds, while Fordyce spots are tiny, painless, white or yellowish bumps that are visible sebaceous glands, naturally present on the vulva.
Infections can also lead to vulvar bumps, distinct from yeast overgrowth. Genital herpes, a viral infection, typically causes clusters of small, painful blisters that eventually break open to form sores before crusting over. Human papillomavirus (HPV) can result in genital warts, which are flesh-colored or whitish bumps that can be flat or raised, and sometimes resemble cauliflower. Another viral infection, molluscum contagiosum, presents as small, firm, dome-shaped bumps with a dimple in the center.
Seeking Professional Medical Advice
Given the diverse causes of vulvar bumps, professional medical advice is important for accurate diagnosis. Self-treating without a confirmed diagnosis can delay appropriate care and potentially worsen the condition. A healthcare provider can properly evaluate the symptoms and determine the underlying cause.
Medical attention is important if vulvar bumps are persistent, painful, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Additional symptoms include unusual discharge, fever, or an increase in bump size or number. A doctor can perform a physical examination, take discharge samples, or conduct a biopsy to identify the exact cause. This diagnostic process allows for the most effective treatment plan.