Persistent Small Bump in Perineum: Seeking Advice After Six Months
I am a 35-year-old male, standing at 189 cm tall and weighing 82 kg. I neither smoke nor do drugs, and I don’t have any known medical issues, occasionally enjoying an alcoholic beverage. About six months ago, I noticed what seemed to be an ingrown hair in the perineal region. A small accumulation of pus formed, approximately the size of a pea (around 5 mm in diameter). This bump ruptured roughly a week after its appearance while I was on the toilet. I have made sure to keep the area clean. Although the wound healed without inflammation, there remains a noticeable bump under the skin. Since that incident, the pea-sized lump has been recurring every two weeks, swelling up but without any pain or significant inflammation—just a bit of itchiness. It eventually discharges a clear fluid mixed with hint of blood, but no signs of infected pus. Interestingly, after it leaks, the bump appears to disappear for several days or even a week, only to gradually reappear and repeat the cycle. It feels as though each time it ruptures, it gets minimally better in terms of size and the amount of fluid released. However, the progress is painstakingly slow, leading me to doubt whether it will ever resolve. This issue hasn’t notably disrupted my daily activities. There is no pain, just a minor itch before it drains, and that’s the extent of it. At first, I hesitated to consult a doctor since it seemed as inconspicuous as a small pimple. However, with six months passing and no improvement, I am starting to reconsider. Should I continue to maintain cleanliness and disinfect the area, hoping it will resolve on its own, or is there a need for medical intervention?
Answers (1)
6/30/2025, 1:31:00 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a persistent issue in a sensitive area, and it's completely understandable to feel uncertain about what to do next. Based on your description, the recurring bump could be related to sebaceous cysts, folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles), or other types of skin lesions, especially since you've noticed it healing and reappearing without significant infection or pain.
Explanation
The bump you've described seems to act similarly to an inflamed hair follicle or cyst that can fill with fluid, rupture, and then heal over time. Your observations of it getting smaller and discharging are good indicators that it's not a serious infection, but ongoing symptoms for six months suggest it may need further attention.
While maintaining cleanliness is vital, continuing to wait may not lead to a resolution. Early intervention can often help prevent further cycles of irritation.
Next Steps
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Maintain Hygiene: Continue keeping the area clean with mild soap and water, ensuring that you gently pat it dry afterward.
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Avoid Irritants: Make sure to wear loose-fitting underwear and clothing to minimize friction and irritation in the area.
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Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to the area for 10-15 minutes a few times daily can assist with drainage and may soothe any itchiness.
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Moisturizing: A gentle, non-irritating moisturizer may help keep the skin around the bump comfortable.
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Observation: Keep track of any changes in size, fluid discharge, or new symptoms (like pain, increased redness, or fever) over the next week or two.
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Seek Medical Advice: Since this has persisted for six months without significant improvement, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination. A dermatologist or primary care physician can provide assessment and potential treatment options, such as drainage or further evaluation to rule out any underlying concerns.
It's understandable to feel hesitant about seeking medical help, but addressing this sooner rather than later can provide you with clarity and potential relief. Let me know if you have any more questions or need further assistance!
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