Should You See a Doctor for Persistent Labial Hardness After Injury?

Labial issues

Hello doctor, I was in a car accident last week and injured my left labia.
It swelled up and bruised at the time, and there was a hard lump.
Most of it has subsided recently, but there is still a hard lump about 1.5 cm in size.
Should I schedule an appointment, or should I observe it for a while longer?

xuesheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/17

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you can try applying a warm compress for a week.
If there is still no improvement, you may want to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/10/17

More Info

It is understandable to be concerned about persistent hardness or lumps following an injury, especially in sensitive areas such as the labia. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced trauma to the left side of your vulva, which initially resulted in swelling, bruising, and the formation of a hard lump. While some of these symptoms have improved, the remaining hardness measuring approximately 1.5 cm warrants further consideration.

In general, after an injury, the body undergoes a healing process that can involve the formation of scar tissue, which may feel firm or hard to the touch. However, the persistence of a hard lump after a week, especially one that has not resolved, can indicate several possibilities:
1. Hematoma: This is a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, often resulting from trauma. Hematomas can feel firm and may take time to resolve completely. If the lump is a hematoma, it may gradually decrease in size over time.

2. Scar Tissue Formation: Following an injury, the body may produce scar tissue as part of the healing process. This can sometimes feel firmer than the surrounding tissue and may take weeks to months to soften.

3. Infection: Although less likely if there are no signs of redness, warmth, or increased pain, it is still possible for an infection to develop in the area of trauma. If the lump becomes painful, red, or shows signs of discharge, this would necessitate immediate medical attention.

4. Other Pathologies: In rare cases, persistent lumps can indicate other underlying issues, such as cysts or other benign or malignant growths.
Given these considerations, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if the lump does not resolve or if you experience any new symptoms such as increased pain, changes in color, or discharge. A medical professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess the nature of the lump and determine the appropriate course of action.

In the meantime, observe the lump for any changes in size, shape, or associated symptoms. If you notice any worsening or new symptoms, seek medical attention sooner rather than later. It is always better to err on the side of caution, especially when it comes to injuries in sensitive areas.
In conclusion, while some degree of hardness can be a normal part of the healing process, the persistence of a hard lump after an injury should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any complications and ensure proper healing.

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