How common is a vulval lump in genital warts?

Genital warts may appear as one or more small growths on the vulva or nearby skin. They can be smooth or uneven, skin-coloured or slightly darker, and may sit alone or in a cluster. A lump may be noticed without pain, while rubbing, shaving, or sexual contact can make the area sore or irritated. A vulval lump has other possible explanations, including an inflamed hair follicle, a cyst, or another skin change, so appearance alone cannot confirm the cause.

A healthcare professional may inspect the area and ask when it appeared, whether it has changed, and whether you have itching, bleeding, discharge, or discomfort. Testing for other sexually transmitted infections may be discussed depending on your symptoms and sexual history.

Arrange an appointment if the lump is new, growing, recurring, or difficult to identify. Until it is assessed, avoid picking, cutting, or using wart products intended for hands or feet on the vulva. Keep the area gently clean and dry, choose breathable underwear, and pause sexual contact if friction causes pain. Condoms and dental dams can reduce skin-to-skin exposure but do not cover every area where warts may occur.

Seek prompt medical care if the lump bleeds without clear injury, becomes rapidly larger, develops marked redness or swelling, produces pus, or causes severe pain. Get urgent help for fever with worsening vulval swelling, difficulty passing urine, or feeling faint. These features can signal infection or another problem that needs timely assessment.

You could ask: Could this lump be a genital wart or another type of skin change? Do I need testing for other infections? Which treatments are suitable for its location? How should I protect a partner while it is being assessed?