There are several different causes of vaginal lumps and bumps. Here are a few of the commonly seen ones:
STD related
Genital Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection that is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus. It is one of the most common causes of abnormal vaginal lumps and bumps in women.
Women with genital herpes usually present with painful bumps or blisters around the vagina. This may be associated with soreness, tingling or pain during urination.
Treatment: The herpes virus can be tested via a swab test called a PCR test. Treatment for herpes is usually with antiviral medications.
Genital warts are another extremely common cause of abnormal vaginal bumps in women.
They are also a type of sexually transmitted infection caused by the Human Papillomavirus HPV.
They may present with abnormal fleshy bumps which are usually skin coloured, painless and occur in multiple lesions.
Treatment: Genital warts can be treated in various ways, ranging from topical medications such as Podophyllin Toxin, Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen freezing), Electrocautery or Laser removal.
Non STD Related
Abscesses around the genital region are relatively common due to the presence of bacteria around the skin and hair there.
A combination of sweat, humidity, clogged pores and bacteria leads to the formation of a vaginal or vulva abscess.
Treatment: Abscesses can be treated with oral or topical antibiotics. Sometimes the doctor may perform a drainage of the abscess to help it heal faster.
Molluscum is a type of skin infection caused by the virus Molluscum Contagiosum.
These skin lesions usually appear as flesh coloured bumps around 1-2cm in size, are painless and not itchy.
Common ways that Molluscum spreads is through direct skin to skin contact with an infected person, or through contact with contaminated towels.
Treatment: Topical medications such as Podophyllin Toxin, Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen freezing), Electrocautery or Laser removal.
Frequent shaving especially around the private region around the pubic or vulva region can lead to inflammation of the hair follicles known as folliculitis.
This presents as painful tiny bumps or pustules.
Treatment: Topical antibiotics can be applied to reduce the inflammation of the hair follicle. Practising good hygiene can also reduce the risk of infection.
The Bartholin Gland is a tiny gland that is located at each side of the opening of the vagina.
This gland is responsible for producing vaginal fluids, and often gets clogged. This leads to the formation of a Bartholin’s Cyst.
Sometimes, this cyst may get infected to form a Bartholin’s Abscess. This is usually tender and painful.
Treatment: Cysts or Abscesses can usually be treated with antibiotics. However, if the size of the cyst or abscess is too large, a simple procedure called an incision and drainage may be performed. An additional procedure called Marsupializaton may also be done to prevent this cyst from recurring.
There can be so many different causes of abnormal vaginal lumps and bumps. Other possible causes include:
Whatever the cause, a short consultation with a women’s health doctor can identify it and set out your options
Frequently Asked Questions
Normal structures like enlarged oil glands or ingrown hairs due to hair removal may sometimes form tiny bumps on the vulva that you take notice of.
Sometimes, lumps and bumps are caused by benign and harmless conditions like skin tags as well.
Abnormal vaginal bumps are common presenting symptoms of common STDs like genital herpes or genital warts.
It is important to get screened if you are worried.
What to Expect at Ezra Clinic
Discuss your health or aesthetic concerns in a confidential, judgment-free environment with a female doctor.
We’ll go through your health background to ensure treatments are safe and suited to your needs.
A physical examination or diagnostic tests may be recommended to better understand your condition.
Your doctor will explain your options clearly and recommend a plan tailored to your goals.
All procedures are carried out with evidence-based techniques using FDA-approved medical-grade products and technology.
Ezra Clinic is a Women’s Health, Wellness and Aesthetic Clinic that is conveniently located at the top floor of Royal Square Medical Suites in Novena, Singapore’s Medical Health Hub.
Helmed by Dr Michelle Chia, Ezra Clinic is your chosen one stop clinic for all your Women’s Health and Wellness needs.
Address
101 Irrawaddy Road #21-09, Royal Square Medical Centre, Singapore 329565
