If you've ever wondered if the uneven lumps on your vaginal area are normal, don't worry. You're not alone. Vaginal lumps are common for women as they age, especially as they reach their childbearing years. Depending on what caused the lumps, they can be benign, infected, or malignant.
Benign Lumps
Benign lumps are typically caused by cysts, ingrown hair, and vestibular papillomatosis.
Cysts
There are mainly two types of cysts, mainly vulvar and vaginal. The former refers to lumps and bumps on the exterior of your genital area, while the latter refers to lumps along the walls of your vagina.
Your vulva has several glands. If any of them become clogged, a cyst may form. The sizes of the cysts may vary, but they will generally feel small and hard. Unless they become infected, vulvar cysts are painless. Once it becomes uncomfortable or painful, you can have your doctor drain your cysts. Otherwise, it should go away naturally.
Much like vulvar cysts, vaginal cysts are small, firm, and painless. Often, women get this type of cyst after giving birth or experiencing an injury. When they cause discomfort during intercourse, it's time to have them removed surgically.
Ingrown hair
Another cause of benign vaginal lumps is ingrown hair. Plucking, shaving, or waxing your pubic hair can increase the risk of developing ingrown hair. These are small, itchy bumps on the outside layer of your vagina. If not properly treated, the skin around the bumps can become darker, or the bumps can be filled with pus. When this happens, avoid extracting ingrown hair on your own because it can lead to severe infection.
The bumps should resolve themselves without treatment. But, if they become inflamed or show signs of infection, visit a Singapore women’s clinic.
Vestibular papillomatosis
Vestibular papillomatosis is commonly mistaken for warts because it's characterised by small symmetrical bumps on the vaginal opening. However, contrary to popular belief, this is not a symptom of an STD. In fact, most doctors think that this condition is a variation of the vulva's natural anatomy. For this reason, it should not cause any worry for women.
Although benign lumps are often harmless and painless, when you notice the size of the lumps grow or feel any discomfort, be sure to seek professional help from professionals at women’s clinic Singapore.
Lumps Caused by Infection
On the other hand, lumps caused by infection can be spread through skin contact. Unlike the harmless and painless causes of benign lumps, the second type of lumps are closely related to STDs, which may include the following:
Genital Warts
These are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus) infection and can spread via vaginal and anal intercourse. Although rare, it’s also possible to pass this infection through oral sex.
To know if you're suffering from this condition, watch out for symptoms like clusters of small bumps, rough patches, burning, or itching. Since this can be transmitted through sexual intercourse, genital warts can develop in your anus, vulva, or vagina.
Herpes Sores
Herpes lumps appear as red, watery blisters that can become painful sores over the genital area. The early stages of the outbreak will produce symptoms such as fever, swollen glands, and pain in the legs, genitals, and bottom. As it progresses, the symptoms can develop into tingling, itching, and ulcers. This type of lumps are highly contagious, so it's best to speak with a doctor regarding the necessary treatments.
Molluscum Contagiosum
This type of lump is caused by the pox virus. It can appear on your skin as pearly-white bumps with a central dimple called “umbilication.” Compared to other lumps caused by infection, molluscum contagiosum is painless and not itchy. However, it can still be spread through skin contact or contaminated objects like clothing.
Cancerous Lumps
Cancer-caused lumps are often rare, but women who either smoke or are older in age are more prone to developing this type of lumps. In addition, those that have been infected with the HPV virus become more susceptible to developing these.
If you experience abnormal pain, discharges, and bleeding symptoms, visit the recommended women's clinic Singapore and have your genital areas checked.
Conclusion
Talking about the vagina and the conditions that may develop in that region can help you detect problems faster to prevent severe health issues. So, when you experience the symptoms mentioned above, be sure to seek professional help.