24F - Sensitive Bump on Vulva
A week ago, I discovered an extremely painful, red, swollen bump on my vulva, which seemed to appear suddenly. I frequently shave the area, but I don’t recall shaving just before this bump developed. Initially, I suspected it might be an ingrown hair, but I have never experienced one that was this red and swollen. Since its emergence, the skin covering the bump has become dry and has peeled slightly, resembling a large pimple with a smooth surface, although it retains a firm texture when pressed. Fortunately, there has been a reduction in size over the past week. The bump has not been warm to the touch, there’s been no drainage from it, and I’ve noticed no similar lesions on my body. I've been careful not to touch it and have started using a bandage to cover it. I do not have a fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes, but I’ve experienced some muscle soreness in my back, which I believe is mostly due to stress and poor posture. If anyone has suggestions on how to manage or treat this issue, I would greatly appreciate your input! I'm feeling quite anxious as this is a new experience for me.
Answers (1)
2/14/2026, 1:30:38 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a painful and concerning bump on your vulva, and I'm here to help provide some guidance. Based on your description, this bump could potentially be an ingrown hair, a folliculitis (infection/inflammation of hair follicles), or possibly even a cyst. Since it has reduced in size, that’s a positive sign.
Explanation
You mentioned that the bump is painful and has a firm texture but hasn't produced drainage or exhibited warmth, which might suggest that it's not currently infected in a way that is causing further complications. The dryness and peeling you described could indicate irritation, possibly from friction or shaving. Keep in mind that anxiety about this situation is completely normal, especially when you're experiencing something new and concerning.
Next Steps
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Avoid Irritation: Continue to avoid touching or picking at the bump, as this might worsen irritation or lead to infection.
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Warm Compress: You can apply a warm, clean compress to the area for 10-15 minutes a few times a day. This may help to reduce inflammation and provide some relief.
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Gentle Cleansing: Clean the area gently with mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid using strong chemicals or fragrances that can aggravate sensitivity.
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Moisturization: If the area feels dry, consider applying a gentle, unscented moisturizer after cleansing to keep the skin hydrated.
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Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on the bump over the next several days. If it continues to improve, that's encouraging. However, if you notice increased redness, swelling, warmth, or start to develop drainage, it would warrant further investigation.
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Shaving Caution: If you do shave the area, consider using a clean razor and a shaving cream designed for sensitive skin. Alternatively, you might want to explore other hair removal methods that might reduce irritation, like trimming or waxing by a professional.
If the bump does not improve within a week or worsens, I recommend seeking help from a healthcare professional for a clearer diagnosis. I understand this situation is causing you anxiety, and that's natural—make sure to reach out for support if needed. Please take care!
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