Vaginal Pimples - Causes & How To Treat Them

Although pimples in the genital area may be embarrassing, they are very common and are usually nothing to worry about. Unfortunately, even though they are generally not serious, they can be irritating and uncomfortable, so here we look at what causes them and how you can treat them.

What Do Vaginal Pimples Look Like?

Vaginal pimples will look similar to pimples which occur elsewhere on the body. Some are painful while others are painless, they could be red, flesh colored, or filled with pus, they could occur singly or in clusters, and they could be itchy or not, in all shapes and sizes.

Causes Of Vaginal Pimples

There are sometimes no obvious causes for vaginal pimples, however most cases are caused by one of the following:

  • Contact dermatitis – this is a form of eczema which is caused when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen like a douche, a feminine hygiene product, a fragranced soap, a laundry detergent, a medicated gel or lotion, a personal lubricant, condoms, sweat, tampons, sanitary pads, semen or urine.
  • Folliculitis - this is an inflammation and infection of the genital hair follicles which occurs due to shaving, wearing tight clothes, ingrowing hairs, irritation or blockages from sweat or personal hygiene products, using unclean pools or hot tubs, or an infected wound or cut.
  • Acne Inversa – sometimes called hidradenitis suppurativa, this chronic inflammatory skin condition affects the groin’s sweat glands. The condition is characterized by recurring pus filled sores and spots.
  • Molluscum Contagiosum – this viral infection causes lesions all over the body, including in the genital area. These growths are raised, small and either flesh colored or white. They have a pearly appearance with a dimple in the center.

Available Treatments

Although vaginal pimples will often clear up by themselves, there are some available treatments including:

  • Discontinuing use of any irritant which is causing the problem. This can be done by avoiding any product which has contact with the vaginal area until the symptoms have disappeared before slowly reintroducing each product one at a time until the culprit has been found.
  • Always use fresh blades when shaving and shave in the same direction as the hair grows. Always wet shave.
  • Always keep your hot tub and pool clean and shower thoroughly afterwards.
  • Maintain good hygiene around the genital area so microorganisms and bacteria cannot thrive. Wash every day using warm water and unperfumed soap. Never use any harsh products since they can alter the pH balance of this delicate area leading to infection.
  • Wear loose clothing and cotton underwear which will not trap moisture and heat. Change your clothes after you work out.
  • Change your sanitary pads and tampons regularly when menstruating or use a menstrual cup.
  • Never squeeze a vaginal pimple as this could result in more irritation and pain, and can spread the bacteria causing pimples to spread.
  • Treat the affected area with a warm compress to treat the pain and itching. You can soak a towel in some warm water, squeeze out, the place onto the skin several times a day. Dry properly before you dress again to stop bacteria from growing.
  • If you have severe pimples you can consult a doctor who can prescribe antihistamines or topical medications or antibiotics.

Read more about natural vaginal tightening here: amairaskincare.com.au/blogs/news/how-to-make-your-vagina-tighter-naturally-at-home