Vulvar lump under the skin: what to know

A tender, warm lump may be a Boil or another inflamed follicle, particularly after friction or hair removal. A blocked gland or cyst can feel smooth and sit deeper in the tissue. Some Skin Lumps are harmless growths, while a persistent crusted, bleeding or ulcerated lesion needs careful inspection. Basal Cell Carcinoma is uncommon in this location but belongs in the clinician’s considerations when a lesion does not heal or keeps changing.

Do not squeeze, pierce or repeatedly rub the lump. Keep the area clean and dry, pause shaving, and wear loose clothing. Note its location, tenderness, growth, drainage and how long it has been present. A clinician may diagnose it by examination; treatment depends on the finding. A Steroid Injection Into The Skin is appropriate only for selected lesions after assessment.

Seek prompt care for fever, spreading redness, severe pain, pus, rapid enlargement, trouble urinating, bleeding or an open sore. Arrange a routine examination for any lump that persists, recurs, becomes firm or changes in colour or surface.

What type of lump does this appear to be? Is it infected or ready for treatment? Would drainage, sampling or observation be appropriate, and which changes should bring me back sooner?