Understanding the Causes of Vaginal Bumps and Lumps

When something is a little "off" with your vagina — like, say, odd smells, rashes and irritation or mysterious bumps — it can cause instant anxiety as you stress over what could this be?! And then you run straight to Dr. Google.

But try not to fall down the self-diagnosis rabbit hole. “Don’t try to be your own doctor! Please seek care and have someone take a look; avoiding care because of embarrassment can lead to worsening symptoms and more extensive treatment,” says Beri Ridgeway, M.D., chair of Obstetrics/Gynecology & Women’s Health Institute at Cleveland Clinic. “Trust me — we’ve seen it all — you can’t surprise us, and this is why we’re here.”

Still, we know that all the self control in the world may still be no match for panicky curiosity. So if you're tempted to do a little digging while you wait for your gyno appointment to arrive, here are some common reasons that gynecologists say you may have a lump or bump on your vagina.

It's always good to know what's going on "down there," including what parts of your vaginal reason you're experiencing a problem with. This can help you better explain to your doctor what your symptoms are, and where they're presenting. There's a difference between a vagina and vulva. The vulva refers to the outer parts of the genital area that you can see, such as the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris and the opening of the vagina. The vagina istself is actually the internal canal that leads to the reproductive organs. So, chances are, if you're seeing something unusual, it's on your vulva as opposed to your vagina (however, it is possible to feel bumps and lumps internally, too).

Usually, yes. Cue a big sigh of relief. Because of how sensitive the vaginal area is, it's common for the outer regions to get irritated or for harmless pimples and cysts to come and go. If you feel inside you with clean fingers, the structure of your vagina wall may also feel bumpy or lumpy; this is probably normal, unless you believe you're feeling something new or unusual. No matter what, it's important to take your vaginal health seriously and never ignore new bumps or lumps, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, swelling or itchiness. See your doctor, because better safe than sorry!

1. It’s an ingrown hair

We've all probably struggled with these once or a million times, and it's one of the most common causes for bumps on the vaginal area. "Pubic hair that has been shaved can lead to ingrown hairs, which can lead to little bumps in that area that sometimes become inflamed like a pimple," says Jennifer Makarov, M.D., OB-GYN and reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist at New Hope Fertility.

When a pubic hair grows back into the skin instead of popping up out of the surface, it can form a small bump that may look red. Though innocent enough, hair bumps can be itchy, tender when swollen and even filled with pus. No matter how tempted you are, don't squeeze it — ingrown hairs will eventually heal on their own, and popping or playing with them can cause them to stick around even longer. Ingrown hairs are often caused by shaving or other hair removal methods, so if you notice them happening frequently, consider going au naturale for a bit.

2. It's a skin tag

Maybe you were doing some solo exploring and notice what feels like a lump. The rest of your day may be spent ruminating over what are normal bumps in vaginal walls? Instead of spiral panicking, give your doc a call, and ease your mind by knowing that there's a chance it could simply be a skin tag. "Sometimes you may see a skin tag vaginally that can be benign, and it wouldn't have itching or irritation," says Dr. Makarov. If you are experiencing burning, pain or other irritation, it could signal another issue is at play. It's smart to call your doctor in both scenarios and let them make the expert determination.

If you've never explored or taken a peek down under, it's a good idea to do so. Knowing what your vagina looks like can help you better notice when something isn't quite right. "You can use a mirror to look at the area and become familiar with its appearance, in order to notice any changes," Dr. Makarov suggests.

3. It's caused by irritation

The vaginal region is often a sensitive area, so everything from shaving to chafing to prolonged exposure to moisture from sweat or urine can trigger bumps and other uncomfy, irritating reactions. "Very commonly, bumps can occur on the vulva from irritation. These can be associated with burning or itching, and the bumps themselves tend to be centered around the irritated hair follicles in question, and appear small, red and raised," says Ambica Sastry, M.D., obstetrician-gynecologist in the department of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive science at Mount Sinai West and Mount Sinai Morningside in New York City. You may also be sensitive to topicals like lubricants, vaginal cleansers, soap and even laundry detergent, so if addressing other potential bump or irritation triggers such as changing your shaving technique or employing anti-chafing tactics doesn't help, talk to your gyno or a dermatologist who can help you identify other culprits.

4. You have a cyst

The internal area of the vagina is home to glands that make mucus, which helps keep things lubricated, but sometimes these glands can get clogged and cause a small cyst, or a pocket of tissue filled with fluid or air. “A cyst can present in many different ways; they appear white or clear, they can be tiny or quite large, and they can be located in all areas of the vulva,” Dr. Ridgeway says. Some women develop cysts after trauma to the vaginal walls (like childbirth or surgery). If a cyst doesn’t go away on its own, your doctor can drain or remove it.

5. Maybe it's eczema

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition often characterized by an itchy, patchy rash, and while you may think of it as mainly affecting the skin on other parts of your body such as the hands, some people may develop blister-like lesions or red and raised bumps on the vaginal area depending on the type of eczema you have. It's always a smart move to make an appointment with your doctor if you notice new rashes or bumps around your vagina that you haven't experienced before — they can confirm if it's caused by eczema or something else, and help determine the best treatment approach to get you feeling better.

6. It might be hidradenitis suppurativa

This condition is still a bit of a mystery, but medical professionals believe hidradenitis suppurativa has something to do with hair follicles becoming clogged, which causes keratin and sweat to build-up and gives bacteria a chance to breed — once the follicle can't handle any more keratin, sweat and bacteria it bursts, causing painful bumps and lumps.

The bumps usually form where skin rubs against skin, such as the vaginal area, buttocks or armpits, and they may look like blackheads (yes, the type you get on your face), pea-sized lumps that are painful, fluid-filled bumps or a train of connected bumps. It may also start with just one bump, with more bumps forming over time. Some people experience a single isolated lesion, while others have larger lesions with tracts that form below the skin surface, explains Dr. Sastry.

Your doctor can help you find the best treatment protocol for keeping the condition under control, with medication and other options available to help prevent flare-ups, heal wounds and relieve other symptoms such as itching.

7. It may be molluscum contagiosum

This skin infection is more common in children, but adults can also get it, particularly if you have a compromised immune system; it's caused by a virus and is spread through close skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual, after coming in contact with an object an infected person has touched or after spending time in pools or hot tubs that have been contaminated by the virus. "Molluscum contagiosum often looks like small raised bumps with little dimples in the center," Dr. Sastry says. Usually, the bumps disappear on their own.

8. A cyst could be infected

If you notice a bump or bumps inside the vagina wall that feel painful, it could be an infected cyst. Bartholin cysts are a common type of fluid-filled cyst that form near the Bartholin gland at the vaginal opening, and it's possible for them to become infected (the cyst may grow in size and become very painful if this happens). Small cysts should usually go away on their own, but if they become infected your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or recommend draining it in-office.

9. It could be HPV

Certain strains of human papilloma virus (HPV) cause genital warts, which are typically flesh colored and raised and often aren’t accompanied by any other symptoms, says Dr. Ridgeway. These warts can grow anywhere on, in, or around the female genitalia, including the cervix. They may grow clustered together to form a cauliflower-like shape, and can itch. There's a chance they may go away on their own, thanks to your immune system kicking in; your doctor may also suggest removing them through burning, freezing, lasering and more. Since these warts can be spread through genital-to-genital contact, always abstain from sexual intercourse while they're present or during treatment, and take measures to protect you and your partner in the future.

10. Or herpes

It has a scary reputation, but genital herpes is an extremely common sexually transmitted infection — one in six Americans have it. You may experience small bumps that can be mistaken for a pimple or ingrown hair, or a full-blown outbreak featuring sores and blisters (this probably what you envision when you hear "herpes"). Talk to your doctor about your options for healing from and reducing flare-ups, and they can also help you understand the best ways to keep you and your sexual partner safe and healthy (because yes, you can still enjoy a fulfilling sex life!).

11. It may be a symptom of cancer

Before you panic, know that your bump is much more likely to be caused by something much less scary, but a bump can technically be a sign of some types of cancers. Vulvar cancer can produce lumps that are red, pink or white, and may feel rough or thick to the touch; vaginal cancer, while rare, can also cause a lump. Bumps may be a different color than the rest of your skin in that region, may itch and can also grow in size. "It's a very uncommon cause, but it's very important to mention," Dr. Markov says. The lumps may be itchy or sore, and it's important to see your doctor immediately if you notice a changing or rapidly growing bump, especially if painful or itchy. “It can be scary, but even cancer is curable when diagnosed early,” Dr. Ridgeway adds.

Any time you notice something that doesn't seem quite right or hasn't always been there, talk to your doctor right away.

12. It’s possible it’s syphilis

Though not the most common type of sexually transmitted infection, people still get syphilis, and small bumps called gummas can develop as a complication of the disease. Earlier symptoms include a small painless sore and a body-wide rash. Though scary-sounding, syphilis is curable with penicillin.

A good general rule of thumb to keep your vagina and entire nether region happy and healthy is to clean it every time you take a shower. All you need is warm water and a gentle touch — try to avoid scented feminine soaps and other products, as these may cause irritation in some people. Also, always be sure you and your partner have clean hands when getting frisky. When you do develop an issue such as bumps and lumps down below, your treatment approach will vary depending on what's causing your problem, but these are some common options:

• Antibiotics: If your bumps are caused by a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to help clear things up. If an STI is why you have bumps, your doctor can prescribe a medication to address either symptoms or the root cause.
• Wear 100% cotton underwear: The fabric that your undies are made of may be what's causing you to develop frequent irritation or vaginal bumps — 100% cotton is breathable and more ideal for sensitive areas than synthetic fabrics.
• Topicals: When your itchy bumps are caused by something related to a fabric or product or shaving, your doctor may recommend a prescription or over-the-counter ointment or cream to help relieve symptoms.
• Warm compress: Applying a warm towel or compress to the affected area may help soothe and calm bumps that are caused by folliculitis.
• Surgery: Though most bumps are typically caused by a benign reason such as improper shaving technique or an irritating fabric or ingredient, certain cancers may have bumps and lumps as a symptom. In this case, your doctor will work with you to determine if you'd benefit from surgery to remove them or another treatment plan.

Pay your gynecologist a visit whenever you notice bumps or lumps that you don't think should be there. Not only will this put your mind at ease ASAP and provide you with steps to start feeling better, your doctor is the best person to diagnose and recommend the best treatments.

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Medically reviewed byCarolyn Swenson, M.D.

Carolyn W. Swenson, M.D. is an associate professor and division chief of urogynecology & reconstructive surgery at the University of Utah. As a board-certified specialist in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Swenson is an expert in the medical and surgical management of pelvic floor disorders including pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, and obstetric-related pelvic floor symptoms. She lives in Salt Lake City with her husband and three kids.