Bumps or textural changes on the skin surrounding the vagina, known as the vulva, are common. The external genital area is rich with hair follicles, oil glands, and sweat glands, making it susceptible to the same skin issues that occur elsewhere on the body. Most changes are benign, representing minor irritations or anatomical variations. This article provides general information about common causes, but it is not a substitute for a professional medical diagnosis. Any persistent or concerning changes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Common Surface-Level Skin Irritations
The most frequent causes of vulvar bumps relate to the hair and skin on the labia majora (the outer lips of the vulva). Hair removal practices like shaving, waxing, or plucking often lead to folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles. Folliculitis appears as small, red, and sometimes painful bumps that may contain a pus-filled center, resembling common pimples.
An ingrown hair occurs when a shaved or cut hair curls back and grows into the skin, causing a small, often itchy, round bump. These irritations are typically managed by wearing loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction and keeping the area clean. They often resolve on their own within a few days to a couple of weeks as the body sheds the trapped hair or clears the minor infection.
Other surface issues include sebaceous cysts, which are small, painless bumps filled with sebum or dead skin cells from blocked oil glands. Contact dermatitis can also cause bumps, itching, and redness if the skin reacts to irritants like harsh soaps or synthetic underwear materials. These inflammatory reactions usually improve once the offending irritant is removed.
Glandular Swellings and Internal Cysts
Deeper, firmer swellings near the vaginal opening often originate from specialized glands, such as the Bartholin’s glands. These glands are located on either side of the vaginal opening and normally secrete fluid for lubrication. A Bartholin’s cyst develops when the duct becomes blocked, causing mucus to accumulate and form a lump that can range in size from a pea to a golf ball.
Bartholin’s cysts are frequently painless, but if infected, they can rapidly turn into a tender, severely painful abscess requiring medical attention. Skene’s glands (paraurethral glands) are located near the urethra and can also become blocked. A Skene’s gland cyst is less common and, if infected, typically presents with acute pain and tenderness closer to the urinary opening.
Sebaceous cysts are common deeper lumps that form when the oil-producing glands of the vulva become clogged. These feel like a small, firm, round lump under the skin and contain a yellow-white, greasy material. These cysts represent anatomical blockages rather than external skin issues and are often smooth and deeper than surface irritations.
Bumps Caused by Viral or Bacterial Infections
Some bumps are manifestations of infections that require specific diagnosis and treatment. Genital warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), appear as small, flesh-colored growths that are sometimes flat or slightly raised. These warts may cluster together, giving them a characteristic cauliflower-like appearance; they are usually painless but can occasionally be itchy.
Genital herpes, caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), typically begins as small, painful, fluid-filled blisters. These blisters often appear in clusters and eventually break open to form shallow, painful sores that crust over before healing. The onset of an outbreak is sometimes preceded by a tingling or burning sensation.
Molluscum contagiosum is a localized viral infection that causes small, firm, dome-shaped bumps on the skin. A defining feature is a central dimple or indentation, and they are usually white, pink, or skin-colored. While typically painless, they are highly contagious through skin-to-skin contact.
Knowing When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
While many vulvar bumps are harmless and resolve on their own, certain signs indicate the need for prompt medical evaluation. A healthcare provider should examine any bump that rapidly increases in size, causes extreme or worsening pain, or does not show signs of healing within two to three weeks. The presence of open sores, ulcers, or blisters that are painful or persistent warrants consultation.
Other concerning symptoms include a bump accompanied by fever, chills, or unusual discharge. These signs suggest a significant infection that may require antibiotics or drainage procedures. Seeking medical advice is the safest approach for any new or changing lump, especially one that bleeds, becomes severely tender, or interferes with sitting or walking.