Painful Groin Lumps: When to Seek Medical Help

There is a hard lump on the mons pubis?

About one or two months ago, I discovered a lump on the right side of my vulva that hurts when pressed lightly.
At first, I thought it was a pimple, and after squeezing it, I noticed some white particles and pus, which made me more certain it was a pimple.
However, the lump did not go away; instead, it shrank and then grew larger again a few days ago.
It does not hurt when walking or doing other activities, but it is painful when pressed.
The top part appears a bit grayish-black.
Today, in a moment of impulse, I squeezed it, and some pus and white chunks (similar to what comes out of a pimple with pus) sprayed out, followed by blood, but it still feels swollen.
I am a bit worried about the recurrence and am unsure what is happening.
If I need to go to the hospital for an examination, should I see a gynecologist or another specialist? Which department should I prioritize?

Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/20

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology

You can go to see an obstetrician-gynecologist.

Reply Date: 2018/08/20

More Info

When it comes to painful groin lumps, it’s essential to approach the situation with caution, especially given the symptoms you've described. The lump you found on the right side of your vulva, which has changed in size and has been painful to the touch, could be indicative of several conditions. The fact that you initially thought it was a pimple, but it has persisted and even changed in size, suggests that it may not be a simple skin issue.

Possible Causes of the Lump
1. Sebaceous Cyst: These are common and can occur when a hair follicle becomes blocked. They can become inflamed or infected, leading to pain and the discharge of pus.

2. Abscess: If the lump is painful and has pus, it may be an abscess, which is a collection of pus that can occur due to infection. This would require medical treatment, possibly including drainage.

3. Lymphadenopathy: Swollen lymph nodes in the groin area can also present as lumps. This can occur due to infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or other systemic conditions.

4. Folliculitis: This is an infection of the hair follicles that can cause painful lumps, often mistaken for pimples.

5. Other Skin Conditions: Conditions such as hidradenitis suppurativa or even certain types of dermatitis can cause painful lumps in the groin area.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given that the lump has changed in size, has been painful, and has discharged pus and blood, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Here are some signs that indicate you should see a doctor:
- The lump continues to grow or does not improve.

- You experience increased pain or swelling.

- There is persistent discharge of pus or blood.

- You develop fever or other systemic symptoms.

Which Specialist to See
For a lump in the groin area, you have a couple of options for specialists:
1. Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN): This is often the first choice for women experiencing issues in the pelvic region. An OB/GYN can evaluate the lump, perform necessary examinations, and provide treatment options.

2. Dermatology: If the lump is suspected to be a skin-related issue, a dermatologist can provide specialized care for skin conditions, including cysts and abscesses.

3. General Surgery: If the lump requires surgical intervention, a general surgeon may be involved, especially if drainage or excision is necessary.

Conclusion
In summary, it is crucial to seek medical advice given the changes in your symptoms. An OB/GYN would be a suitable first step, as they can assess the lump and determine if further treatment or referral to another specialist is necessary. Do not hesitate to seek help, as early intervention can prevent complications and provide peace of mind. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns.

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