Genital Bumps:

Just a pimple or something else?

Finding a bump on the vulva can be worrying.

Many are benign such as blocked oil glands or ingrown hairs

but some bumps signal sexually transmitted infections (STIs),

including genital herpes or genital warts.

What conditions can cause bumps on the vulva?

• Acne
• Ingrown hair / folliculitis
• Milia (small keratin cysts)
• Bartholins gland abscess
• Genital herpes
• Genital warts (HPV)
• Molluscum contagiosum
• Vulvar skin cancer (rare)

How do the bumps typically look?

• Acne: Red swollen bump with a comedo head, similar to facial acne.
• Folliculitis / ingrown hair: Tender red bump centered on a hair follicle.
• Milia: 12 mm firm white/yellow papules; painless; keratin plugs.
• Bartholins abscess: Painful red lump near the vaginal opening (labia majora).
• Genital herpes: Clusters of clear vesicles or pustules on a red base; burning or pain.
• Genital warts: Flesh-colored/pink, rough cauliflower-like papules; usually painless.
• Molluscum contagiosum: Dome-shaped papules with central dimple; express thick white core if squeezed.
• Vulvar skin cancer: New persistent lump or color change; may or may not form a bump.

Diagnosis

A clinician will take a history and perform an exam (and pelvic exam if indicated). Laboratory tests may include swabs or scrapings for viruses, bacteria, or HPV.

Treatment

• Acne: Comedone extraction and topical therapy.
• Ingrown hair / clogged glands: Warm compresses, emollients, hygiene.
• Milia: Benign; often resolves spontaneously.
• Bartholins abscess: Antibiotics and/or incision & drainage.
• Genital herpes: Antivirals (e.g., acyclovir) topical and/or oral.
• Genital warts / Molluscum: TCA application, cryotherapy, laser as appropriate.
• Follow-up to prevent recurrence.

Prevention

• Use condoms consistently.
• Avoid contact with visible lesions not covered by condoms.
• Dont reuse or share razors; avoid unclean shaving.
• Do not share personal items (towels, underwear, sex toys).
• Maintain vulvar hygiene as advised by your clinician.
• Get routine sexual health checkups.

Meta Description

Vulvar bumps in womencauses, appearance, diagnosis, evidence-based treatments, and prevention by Clitoria Clinic.

Keywords

vulvar bump, genital lump, genital herpes, genital warts, folliculitis, STI, Clitoria Clinic