You've just discovered a pimple, bump, or unusual growth on your vulva, and worry is setting in. This is a normal reaction; our intimate area is particularly sensitive, and any abnormality can seem alarming. But before you panic, know that in the majority of cases, vulvar pimples are benign and easily treatable. From simple folliculitis to Bartholin's cyst, let's discover the most common causes, how to recognize them, and, most importantly, when it becomes necessary to consult a doctor.
The main thing to remember
- Most vulvar pimples are benign (folliculitis, cysts, ingrown hairs)
- Some require a consultation: painful spots, which persist, are accompanied by fever or unusual symptoms
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can manifest as spots - hence the importance of consulting if in doubt
- Never attempt to pierce a vulvar pimple yourself - risk of infection
The 7 Most Common Causes of Vulvar Pimples
1. Folliculitis: "Razor Burn"
What's this ? Folliculitis is an inflammation or infection of the hair follicles (the small sac in which each hair grows). It is by far the most common cause of vulvar pimples, especially after hair removal.
What it looks like:
- Small red or white bumps around the hairs
- May be slightly painful or itchy
- Usually appear 1-2 days after hair removal (razor, wax, epilator)
- Located on the pubis and labia majora
What to do: It usually goes away on its own within a few days. Avoid waxing while it heals, wear cotton underwear, and apply a warm compress if it's uncomfortable.
2. Ingrown Hair
An ingrown hair grows under the skin instead of coming out on the surface. This creates a small, red bump, sometimes filled with pus, which can be painful.
- What it looks like: Red button with sometimes a white dot in the center, you can sometimes see the hair under the skin.
- What to do: Warm compress to help the hair come out naturally. Do not pierce it with a needle! If the hair does not come out and it is painful, consult a doctor.
3. Bartholin's Cyst
Bartholin's glands are two small glands located on either side of the vaginal opening that produce lubricating fluid. When their ducts become blocked, a cyst can form.
What it looks like:
- Round, firm lump near the entrance to the vagina (lower side)
- Maybe from the taille from a pea to that of a golf ball
- Usually painless (unless it becomes infected)
- If infected (abscess): very painful, red, hot to the touch, may be accompanied by fever
⚠️ Consultation: If the cyst is painful, interferes with your activities (walking, sitting, sexual intercourse), grows rapidly, or is accompanied by a fever, a doctor may drain or treat it depending on the situation.
4. Sebaceous Cysts (Inclusion Cysts)
These are small cysts that form when the sebaceous glands (which produce sebum) become blocked. They are very common and completely benign.
- What it looks like: Small, firm, mobile, painless, flesh-colored or slightly whitish lump under the skin. May remain stable for months or years.
- What to do: If they don't bother you, nothing! If they become painful or infected, consult a doctor to have them treated.
5. Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the HSV virus. It is a cause that should not be neglected, as it requires specific treatment.
What it looks like:
- small vesicles (blisters) filled with clear fluid
- Grouped in a "bouquet"
- Very painful, intense burning sensation
- May burst and form ulcers
- Accompanied by flu-like symptoms during the first attack (fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes)
- May recur (flare-ups triggered by stress, fatigue, periods)
⚠️ Mandatory consultation: If you suspect genital herpes, seek medical help promptly. Antiviral treatment can reduce the duration and intensity of symptoms. Avoid sexual intercourse during outbreaks.
6. Condylomas (Genital Warts)
Condylomas are caused by certain strains of the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV). They are very common and generally benign.
- What it looks like: Small, cauliflower-shaped growths, flesh-colored or pink, isolated or in groups, painless but sometimes bothersome.
- What to do: Consult for confirmation and treatment (creams, cryotherapy, laser). The HPV vaccine can prevent these infections.
7. Contact Irritation or Dermatitis
Your vulva may react to irritating products or allergens: perfumed soaps, detergents, sanitary protection, condoms, lubricants, synthetic clothing, etc.
- What it looks like: Redness, small red spots, intense itching, sometimes swelling.
- What to do: Identify and remove the irritant. Use a mild, pH-neutral soap, wear cotton underwear, and if the irritation persists, seek medical help.
Summary Table: How to Identify Your Button
When is it absolutely necessary to consult a doctor?
Certain signs should alert you and justify a rapid medical consultation.
Check in the following days when
- The button is painful, large, or interferes with your daily activities
- Il does not disappear after 1-2 weeks
- Il get bigger quickly
- You had a unprotected sex recent and unusual symptoms appear
- If you have persistent itching
- vaginal discharge abnormal (odor, color, quantity) accompany the pimples
- If you have bleeding outside the rules
⚠️ Consult urgently
- Fever (over 38°C)
- Intense pain and sudden
- Appearance of multiple vesicles painful with flu-like symptoms
- Very area red, hot, swollen which is spreading rapidly
- Impossibility ofurinate because of the pain
These symptoms may indicate a serious infection requiring immediate antibiotic treatment.
What You Should NEVER Do
- ❌ Never pierce popping a vulvar pimple yourself - high risk of infection and scarring
- ❌ Do not use aggressive products (alcohol, peroxide, toothpaste) on the area
- ❌ Do not apply facial creams or ointments without medical advice
- ❌ Don't self-diagnose an STI via the internet - only a medical test can confirm
- ❌ Don't wait that it gets worse if you have any doubts
Prevention: How to Avoid Vulvar Pimples?
Although they cannot always be avoided, certain habits reduce the risks.
Adapted Intimate Hygiene
- Clean your vulva with water and a mild soap with neutral pH (pH 4-5)
- One wash a day is enough (two maximum) - excessive hygiene unbalances the flora
- Never wash inside the vagina - it naturally self-cleans
- Dry the area thoroughly by dabbing (not rubbing)
- Avoid scented intimate wipes on a daily basis
Hair removal
- Use a clean and new razor (change the blades regularly)
- Shave in the direction of the hair to limit irritation
- Apply a shaving foam or gel best
- Moisturize after waxing with a soothing, fragrance-free treatment
- Laser or electrolysis hair removal can reduce recurrent folliculitis
Menstrual Clothing and Protection
- Favor them cotton underwear
- Avoid tight clothing which promotes maceration
- Change your underwear daily (and after exercise)
- Use breathable menstrual protection like Period Panties
Protections that respect your privacy
Unlike disposable protections which can irritate, our cotton Period Panties let your skin breathe and limit the risk of vulvar irritation.
Protection During Sexual Intercourse
- Use a condom with new partners to avoid STIs
- Make sure you have a sufficient lubrication to avoid micro-lesions
- Urinate after sexual intercourse
- Make regular screenings STIs if you are sexually active
Your Questions, Our Answers Without Taboos
Don't Let Worry Take Over
Discovering a pimple on your vulva can be stressful, but remember that in the vast majority of cases, it's harmless and resolves easily. Folliculitis, ingrown hairs, and sebaceous cysts are extremely common and a normal part of vulvar life.
The important thing is not to panic, but to remain vigilant. Observe the progress for a few days. If the pimple disappears, perfect. If it persists, grows, becomes painful, or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult a doctor without hesitation.
And above all, never be ashamed to seek help for an intimate problem. Healthcare professionals see these types of situations every day and are there to help you, not judge you. Your intimate health deserves your full attention and all the necessary care.
Medical Warning: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have an unusual, persistent, or painful vulvar pimple, always consult a doctor or gynecologist.
