Pain in your intimate area can occur for several reasons. One of the most common and noticeable causes is a pus-filled bump or a boil that develops in the skin outside your vagina. It is popularly known as a vaginal boil, but because of its location, the apt term for it is vulvar boil. Given that the boils can be extremely painful and discomforting, many choose to take matters into their own hands and squeeze or pop them open. But is this the right way to deal with it? In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr N Sapna Lulla, Lead Consultant-Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, answered and shared a few tips to treat vaginal boils safely.

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What Causes Vaginal Boil?

Vaginal boils are painful, pus-filled lumps that are commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that is present in up to half of all adults, according to StatsPearl Publishing, which adds that approximately 15% of the population persistently carry the bacteria in the anterior nares, which is the external portion of the nose.

Dr Lulla said, “Poor hygiene, ingrown hairs, or friction during shaving may contribute to the infection.

Additionally, these boils often start as red, tender bumps and progress to larger, painful nodules filled with white or yellow pus, she added.

Should You Pop Them?

As per the doctor, it is not safe to pop vaginal or vulvar boils at home.

“Popping can introduce the area to bacteria, leading to an infection and potentially worsening the condition,” she said. It may also cause complications, including scarring or the spread of infection.

Rather than popping the boil, the doctor advised seeking medical attention for proper drainage and antibiotic treatment for effective healing.

Different Types Of Vaginal Bumps

Apart from boils and abscesses in the vaginal area, there are many different types of vaginal bumps with different characteristics and accompanying different symptoms. These include:

Ingrown Hair: Usually solitary, with hair visible in the centre, it is less painful and may resolve on its own.

Pimple or acne: Small, red, with or without a whitehead; not usually painful; may be linked to hormonal changes.

Cyst: A round, firm lump beneath the skin, which can be painless or tender.

Herpes lesion: Cluster of small, fluid-filled blisters, which are accompanied by itching and flu-like symptoms in some cases.

Bartholin’s cyst or abscess: Located near the vaginal opening, it may cause pain during walking or intercourse.

It is best to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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How To Treat Vaginal Boils Safely

Here are some safe treatment options for vaginal boils, which involve gentle care and, in some cases, professional medical assistance.

• Apply a clean, warm compress to the affected area for 20 minutes several times a day; this can help reduce pain and encourage drainage.
• Maintain good hygiene, but avoid harsh soaps or aggressive scrubbing, as this can irritate the area.
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable underwear to prevent friction and promote healing.
• Non-prescription pain relievers can help manage pain and inflammation. However, the doctor’s advice is highly recommended.

“Seek medical attention if the boil persists, worsens, or is accompanied by a fever. A healthcare professional may need to drain the boil or prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections,” Dr Lulla concluded.