Are there health concerns associated with bumps on the vulva?

Dear Bumpy, 

Based on what you’ve written, it’s hard to tell whether your symptoms are caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other conditions like polyps or cysts. It's common to get bumps and lumps on your genitals from time to time, and some types of bumps go away on their own. That said, it may be best for you to schedule some time to speak with a health care provider about your symptoms. They may be able to help you figure out what’s going on and come up with a solution! 

What STIs can cause bumps on the vulva? 

It’s possible to get certain STIs on the genitals after receiving oral sex from someone who has an infection in their throat or mouth. Some of these STIs can also cause bumps or lesions in the genital area. These STIs can include: 

• Genital herpes: Infection with the herpes simplex virus can cause small, painful, and itchy sores on the genital areas. These blistery, red sores may sometimes bleed or ooze a clear liquid. Herpes can be passed through skin-to-skin contact as well as bodily fluids.  
• Genital warts: Human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause genital warts that sometimes appear months or years after infection. Warts can vary in appearance; they may be raised or flat, smooth or bumpy, flesh-colored or darker in color. They may appear as a singular wart or as a cluster and they may also be itchy. HPV can be spread through penetrative sex, oral sex, and skin-to-skin contact.  

What other conditions can cause bumps on the vulva? 

In some cases, vulvar bumps can also be caused by other conditions that are often unrelated to sexual contact such as:  

• Molluscum contagiosum: This viral infection can cause a wart or a cluster of warts on your skin. These bumps may be the color of your natural skin tone, white, pink, or purple. They usually have a small indent in the center and are firm to the touch, although they may become soft over time. Molluscum contagiosum is spread through physical (including sexual) contact and contaminated surfaces and objects such as a razor. 
• Pimples: Pimples are formed when dirt, sweat, and bacteria clog your pores, causing inflammation. They usually look like small, red bumps with a white dot at the tip, but may also be completely red. Common causes include ingrown hairs and skin irritation from soaps, laundry detergent, or tight or ill-fitting clothing.  
• Bartholin’s cyst: This occurs when one of the glands responsible for lubricating the vagina becomes blocked. Fluid builds up underneath the skin, causing a soft, painless lump around the opening of the vagina.  
• Skin tags: Also known as polyps, these painless growths on the skin tend to look like a small bulb or balloon hanging off your skin. They may be the same color as your skin or appear reddish-purple, gray, or white in color.  

What should you do if you have a bump on your vulva? 

It may be best to speak with a health care provider about your symptoms. They can conduct a physical examination and may ask you questions such as:  

• When did you notice the bump? 
• Has it produced any discharge? 
• Has it changed in size or color over time? 
• Is it painful or itchy? 

A health care provider can conduct any necessary tests and may be able to determine if the bump is caused by an STI or another condition. If it’s something that needs treatment, they may be able to recommend or prescribe products such as topical medication or warm and cool compresses. If necessary, they may also be able to remove the bump by freezing it (cryotherapy), scraping it out (curettage), or using a laser (laser therapy).  

How can you prevent vulva bumps? 

You mentioned that you have had oral sex with two male virgins. Have you had an open and honest conversation about your sexual histories? Knowing that many STIs can be spread through oral sex and skin-to-skin contact, it’s possible to get an STI without having had vaginal or anal sex.  

It’s also important to note that STIs don’t always cause symptoms or may only cause minor symptoms that can go unnoticed. For this reason, you and your partner(s) may want to consider getting tested if you haven’t done so recently. It’s also recommended to get tested any time you have a new sexual partner—ideally before getting in bed together.  

To reduce the risk of STI transmission during oral sex, consider covering the penis with a non-lubricated condom or using a dental dam. It’s also recommended to get regular Pap smears to test for cervical cancer and discuss any changes in your health.  

Good luck, stay safe, and here's to a smoother road ahead!