a Small Growth Near the Vaginal Opening: Causes and Concerns

There is a small lump in the perineal area?

A small flesh-like growth (about the size of a half grain of rice, without a surface layer or a cauliflower appearance, and relatively smooth) was found below the vaginal opening.
Its color is similar to the surrounding skin.
It was discovered last week and has not grown or multiplied since then.
In the past, during sexual intercourse, there were multiple instances of tearing in the area where the small growth is located, and a topical antiseptic was applied at the time of injury.
I have been with a single sexual partner for about a year and a half, and my boyfriend's previous partner is about a year apart from me.
We have always used a hairdryer to dry off after using public hot springs and do not share towels.
Is it possible that this is a result of scar tissue from the injury, or could it be related to my recent irregular sleep schedule? Or is there a possibility of it being genital warts or another sexually transmitted infection? Thank you.

jiu wu ling li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/06

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

A small piece of flesh (about the size of a half grain of rice, without a surface layer or cauliflower-like appearance, and relatively smooth) was found below the vaginal opening.
Its color is similar to the surrounding skin, and it has not grown or multiplied since it was discovered last week.
In the past, during sexual intercourse, there were multiple instances of tearing in the area where the small flesh was found, and I used a sanitary napkin to clean the injury.
I have had a single sexual partner for about a year and a half, and my boyfriend's previous partner is about a year apart from me.
We always use a hairdryer to dry off after using public towels at hotels.
Is it possible that this is scar tissue from the injury, or could it be related to my recent irregular sleep schedule? Or is there a definite possibility of genital warts or other sexually transmitted infections?
Answer: It is possible that it could be genital warts or another sexually transmitted infection; you should see a doctor.

Reply Date: 2019/12/06

More Info

When it comes to small growths near the vaginal opening, there are several potential causes to consider. Based on your description of a small, smooth, skin-colored bump that has not changed in size or number since you first noticed it, it is possible that this could be a benign condition rather than a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or a more serious issue.

One possibility is that the growth is a form of scar tissue or a fibroma, which can develop as a result of previous trauma or injury, such as the tearing you mentioned during sexual activity. When the skin is injured, the body often responds by forming new tissue to heal the area, which can sometimes result in a small, smooth bump. This is particularly plausible given your history of tearing in that area.

Another potential cause could be a sebaceous cyst, which is a small, non-cancerous bump beneath the skin that can occur anywhere on the body, including the genital area. These cysts are typically harmless and can be caused by blocked sebaceous glands. They usually do not require treatment unless they become painful or infected.

While the possibility of a sexually transmitted infection, such as genital warts (caused by the human papillomavirus, HPV), cannot be completely ruled out, the characteristics you describe do not strongly suggest this. Genital warts typically appear as small, fleshy bumps that can be raised or have a cauliflower-like appearance, which does not align with your description of a smooth, flat bump. However, it is important to note that some STIs can present with atypical symptoms, so if you have concerns, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

Regarding your concerns about the impact of lifestyle factors, such as irregular sleep patterns, it is true that stress and lack of sleep can affect your immune system and overall health, potentially making you more susceptible to infections. However, they are unlikely to directly cause a small growth like the one you described.

Given your history of sexual activity and the presence of a new growth, it is advisable to seek a medical evaluation. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may recommend further tests, such as a biopsy, if there is any uncertainty about the nature of the growth. This will help to rule out any serious conditions and provide peace of mind.

In summary, while the small growth you have observed could be a benign condition related to previous trauma, it is essential to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider about any changes in your body are crucial for maintaining reproductive health.

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