Swollen Vulva or Labia: What Causes it?

If you notice vulvar swelling or one labia becoming larger than the other, possible causes range from friction and inflammation to cysts, Bartholin gland problems, or an abscess near the vaginal opening.

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What Causes Vulvar or Labial Swelling?

1. Bartholin Cyst / Bartholin Gland Infection or Abscess

The Bartholin glands are located on both sides of the vaginal opening. If the duct of a Bartholin gland becomes blocked, fluid can accumulate and form a lump known as a Bartholin cyst.

This can cause one-sided vulvar swelling or swelling of one labia, although inflammation can occasionally occur on both sides.

If the cyst becomes infected, the area may become red, swollen, painful, and sometimes associated with fever.

2. Epidermoid Cyst or Sebaceous Cyst

The skin of the labia can develop cysts just like skin elsewhere on the body, including epidermoid cysts or what are commonly called sebaceous cysts.

These may feel like a firm lump beneath the skin and may have a small dark opening. They are often not painful unless they become inflamed or infected.

3. Folliculitis or Ingrown Hair

Folliculitis and ingrown hairs commonly occur on the outer labia where hair grows. They may be associated with shaving, hair removal, friction, or blockage of a hair follicle.

They often appear as red, tender bumps or pus-filled pimples. In some cases, the infection can enlarge and develop into a larger painful lump.

4. Skin Abscess on the Labia or Mons Pubis

The vulvar and pubic areas contain many sebaceous and sweat glands.

As a result, a skin infection can sometimes develop into a pus-filled abscess on the labia or mons pubis.

This type of abscess develops in the skin and is located differently from a Bartholin gland abscess.

Swollen Vulva or Lump Near the Vaginal Opening: When Should You See a Doctor?

If the swelling gradually improves on its own, it may be reasonable to observe the symptoms.

However, you should see a doctor to determine the cause of the swelling if you notice any of the following:

• The lump is getting larger or becoming more painful
• The area is red, hot, swollen, or draining pus
• You have a fever or feel generally unwell
• The pain makes it difficult to walk or sit
• The lump does not go away or keeps coming back
• There is concern about a tumor or cancer

How to Treat Vulvar or Labial Swelling?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Not every swollen vulva, labial lump, or cyst requires medication or surgical drainage.

• A small, painless Bartholin cyst may sometimes shrink or resolve on its own.
• A large or painful cyst or abscess may require a procedure to drain fluid or pus, such as needle aspiration or incision and drainage.
• If an infection is present, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics when medically indicated.
• Other cysts or vulvar lumps may be observed, removed, or sent for biopsy depending on their appearance and the doctor's assessment.

Do not squeeze, puncture, or try to drain the lump yourself, as this may cause bleeding, infection, or worsening inflammation.

At Clitoria Sexual Health Clinic, you can have vulvar swelling, a lump near the vaginal opening, cysts, or genital abscesses examined by a doctor.

Our clinic provides a private, friendly, and non-judgmental environment.

Someone might find our Clinic too far from their places

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Tel: 081-116-3788 | LINE @dr.clitoria

Email: dr.clitoria@gmail.com | WhatsApp: 660811163788

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