Should I Be Worried About Vagina Pimples?

In news we’d love to lose, vagina pimples are a thing. If you’re experiencing them, don’t worry. You’re not alone.
Spots on or around the vulva can pop up just like they can on other parts of your body.

In most cases, they aren’t a cause for concern. But in some, vaginal bumps can signify something more serious.

Here’s what you need to know.

In this article: 📝

Can you get pimples on your vagina?
Is it normal to have bumps in your vagina?
How to get rid of vagina pimples
Do STDs look like pimples?

Can you get pimples on your vagina?

The short answer is yes. But it’s complicated.

To understand why, let’s start by having a spin around the anatomy of the area.

Although many people refer to the whole genital area as the vagina, it’s actually only a part of the story.

The vagina is the canal that connects the uterus to the outside world. The vulva is the outside part of the female genital area.

That means you’re probably a lot less likely to see pimples on vaginas than you are to see them on vulvas.

A pimple on the labia majora — the outer “lip” area of the vulva — is fairly common, for example.

So when we talk about pimples on the vagina, we’re broadening things out to include the vagina’s closest neighbors too.

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Is it normal to have bumps in your vagina?

Pimples near the vagina, like pimples on the face, are often because of acne — basically, pores getting clogged with oil and bacteria.

While uncomfortable, vaginal acne is generally pretty harmless.

Pimples can also be caused by contact dermatitis, a type of eczema that causes your skin to react when it’s irritated.

Your skin down there might be sensitive to:

Douches
Feminine wipes
Condoms or lube
Sanitary products
Laundry detergents
Bodily fluids like sweat, semen, vaginal discharge, or urine

Then, there are other possible reasons for these uncomfortable bumps:

Folliculitis. If you wax or shave regularly, the pimples might be folliculitis, a condition where hair follicles become inflamed or infected. It will usually clear up on its own. But if you notice signs of infection though — such as pus or increased swelling — speak to a doctor.
Hidradenitis suppurativa. This skin disorder affects the glands in the genital area, under the breasts, and in the armpits. The bumps are much bigger than regular pimples — about pea-sized — and pus-filled. There are various treatments available, including antibiotics.
Molluscum contagiosum (MC). This viral infection can also cause bumps in your genital area. They tend to be small, firm, red spots with a dimple in the middle. MC is usually harmless and clears up on its own — but there are treatments available that can help make you more comfortable.

So those are pimples outside your vagina — but can you get pimples in your vagina?

In very rare cases, you might get a small bump on your vaginal opening.

This is known as Bartholin’s cyst and can make having sex and moving around uncomfortable.

While this condition will usually clear up on their own, it’s a good idea to see a doctor to rule out infection.

How to get rid of vagina pimples

Sometimes, pimples just happen — so don’t feel weird if they happen to you.

If your bumps result from infection or a health condition, you will need to chat to a healthcare provider about treatment.

For acne and contact dermatitis, there are steps you can take to prevent bumps from developing in the future. These include:

Use products made for sensitive skin
Change tampons or pads regularly
Practice daily hygiene and keep the area clean and dry
Avoid tight-fitting clothes or underwear

The good news is, once you’ve eliminated the source, they might clear up on their own after a few days.

Do STDs look like pimples?

Some sexually transmitted diseases can cause bumps near your vagina that look a little like pimples.

If you think you might have an STD, it’s best to speak to a medical professional who can help with diagnosis and treatment.

Genital herpes can cause an outbreak of a cluster of red bumps or sores that can be painful or itchy.

You may have other symptoms too, like pain when you urinate or an unusual discharge.

There’s no cure for herpes — but speak to a doctor about managing your symptoms with antiviral medicines.

You don’t have to just struggle through this.

If your pimples are painless lumps, it could be genital warts.

There are various treatments available for this condition, including medication and surgery.

Your vaginal health is super important, so it’s always a good idea to check things out if you’re unsure.

And join us on Peanut. Let’s have the conversation. You don’t have to go through this alone.