Labial Swelling: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Doctor

Labial swelling

I recently discovered a bump on my labia that resembles a pimple, approximately the size of a fingertip.
It is painful when pressed, but there are no signs of external injury or pus.
After a day, the labia became swollen, and the bump is still present and slightly firm.
The swollen area feels soft, and the main point of pain is where the bump is located.
It hurts when walking or during friction (but not when sitting).
A few hours later, I also experienced some pain in my groin.
Currently, I have swelling in the labia, pain at the bump site, and groin pain, all on the left side; the right side is completely fine.
There is no pain when urinating, and I haven't seen any pus (only tissue fluid can be expressed).
The swollen part of the labia is slightly red and appears to be about twice its normal size, with a depth of around 3-4 centimeters.
The bump is not clearly visible after two days.
What could this be? Is it necessary to see a doctor? Thank you.

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/24

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your symptom description, it is more likely to be folliculitis.
I recommend maintaining cleanliness and dryness in the perineal area, avoiding tight clothing, using fewer panty liners, ensuring adequate sleep, and following a light diet.
Additionally, try to avoid stress and prolonged sitting.
You may soak in a bath to alleviate symptoms.
If symptoms persist, please consult a physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2023/08/24

More Info

Labial swelling, particularly when accompanied by pain and the presence of a hard lump resembling a pimple, can be concerning and warrants careful consideration. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing localized swelling and discomfort in the left labia, which has persisted for two days. Here’s a breakdown of potential causes, symptoms, and recommendations on when to seek medical attention.

Possible Causes
1. Bartholin's Cyst: One of the most common causes of labial swelling is a Bartholin's cyst, which occurs when the Bartholin glands (located at the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions of the vaginal opening) become blocked. This can lead to swelling and tenderness, and sometimes the cyst can become infected, leading to more significant pain and redness.

2. Folliculitis or Ingrown Hair: The appearance of a pimple-like bump could indicate folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles. This can occur due to ingrown hairs, especially in areas where hair is regularly removed or shaved.

3. Infection: An infection, such as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or a yeast infection, could also cause swelling and pain in the labia. Symptoms may vary, but localized pain and swelling are common.

4. Abscess: If the lump is hard and painful, it could be an abscess, which is a collection of pus that forms due to infection. This would typically be more painful and may require drainage.

5. Allergic Reaction or Irritation: Sometimes, irritation from soaps, lotions, or other products can lead to localized swelling and discomfort.

Symptoms to Monitor
- Pain: The pain you are experiencing, especially when walking or with friction, is significant. If the pain worsens or becomes unbearable, it is essential to seek medical attention.

- Redness and Warmth: If the area becomes increasingly red or warm to the touch, this could indicate an infection.

- Fever: The presence of fever could suggest a systemic infection, which would require immediate medical evaluation.

- Changes in Discharge: Any unusual discharge, especially if it becomes purulent (pus-like), should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

When to See a Doctor
Given that your symptoms have persisted for two days and are localized to one side, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Here are specific scenarios when you should seek medical attention:
- Persistent Symptoms: If the swelling and pain do not improve or worsen over the next 24 hours.

- Signs of Infection: If you notice increased redness, warmth, or discharge that appears infected.

- Severe Pain: If the pain becomes severe or debilitating.

- Systemic Symptoms: If you develop fever, chills, or other systemic symptoms.

Conclusion
While some causes of labial swelling may resolve on their own, others may require medical intervention, especially if there is an underlying infection or cyst that needs treatment. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your body, particularly in sensitive areas. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging or cultures, to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.
In the meantime, avoid any irritants, wear loose-fitting clothing, and maintain good hygiene to help alleviate discomfort. Remember, your health is paramount, and seeking medical advice is a proactive step towards ensuring your well-being.

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