Redness and Swelling in the Pubic Area: Causes and Solutions

Redness and swelling in the pubic area?

I remember wearing very tight pants while shopping, and when I got home, I noticed that my pubic area was red and swollen with two small broken skin spots.
I accidentally tore the skin around the small openings, which made the redness and swelling worse.
Two days later, when I wore jeans again, I felt a dark red bruise-like sensation under the skin.
I'm not sure what to do; I have been applying a topical antiseptic.

Tian Tian, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/12

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Preliminary assessment indicates that it should not be serious, just a localized inflammation.
Please seek medical examination for confirmation and treatment.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/11/12

More Info

Redness and swelling in the pubic area can be concerning, especially when accompanied by skin lesions or discomfort. Based on your description, it seems that the tight clothing you wore may have caused friction or irritation in the area, leading to the redness and the small broken skin spots. This can happen when clothing is too tight, especially if it rubs against sensitive skin, which can lead to a condition known as friction dermatitis.
When you mentioned that you noticed two small broken skin areas, it is possible that these are minor abrasions or cuts that occurred due to the friction from your clothing. The subsequent redness and swelling could be a result of inflammation in response to this irritation. The appearance of dark red or blackish areas underneath the skin may suggest some localized bruising or even a mild hematoma, which can occur when small blood vessels break due to trauma or excessive pressure.

Here are some steps you can take to address the issue:
1. Avoid Tight Clothing: For the time being, wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction and allow the area to heal. This will help prevent further irritation.

2. Keep the Area Clean: Gently clean the affected area with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing the area, as this can exacerbate irritation.

3. Moisturize: Applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer can help soothe the skin and prevent dryness, which can lead to further irritation.

4. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help reduce inflammation and redness. However, use it sparingly and not for prolonged periods, as it can thin the skin if used excessively. If you have already applied a product like "小護士" (which I assume is a soothing ointment), continue using it as directed.

5. Monitor for Infection: Keep an eye on the area for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

6. Pain Management: If you experience discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

7. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If the redness and swelling do not improve within a few days, or if you experience worsening symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist. They can assess the area for any underlying issues, such as an infection or other skin conditions, and provide appropriate treatment.

In summary, the redness and swelling in your pubic area likely stem from friction caused by tight clothing, leading to irritation and possibly minor skin injuries. By taking steps to reduce irritation and monitor the area, you can promote healing. However, do not hesitate to seek professional medical advice if the situation does not improve or worsens.

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