Women may sometimes experience pain and discomfort caused by infections or boils in the vaginal area. These boils often arise from bacterial infections. While these boils often resolve on their own, they can sometimes require medical attention. Read on to discover more about the symptoms, causes and treatment options for vaginal boils.
Vaginal boils are painful, pus-filled boils in the vaginal area. It is mainly caused by a bacteria called Staphylococcus. It can also develop when you accidentally cut the skin in your pubic area while using shaving razors or from other injuries. These boils can become increasingly painful as they grow larger & usually grow and rupture on its own. They are highly contagious, and it can spread through skin-to-skin contact.
It is not a serious condition, as it subsides in a few weeks. However, you may need medical treatment to ease pain and avoid infection.
The main causes of vaginal boils are:
When the root containing the hair in the pubic area gets infected, that can lead to folliculitis & these boils.
Staphylococcus bacteria, commonly referred to as staph, are typically found on the skin. When these bacteria enter the hair follicles in the vaginal area, they can cause a staph infection & led to development of Boils.
Removing the whole hair leaves the root open, causing bacterial infections.
You may also develop irritation when you wear tight clothes, which consequently causes friction in your genital area which may lead to infection and boils.
Minor cuts or injuries in your pubic area can make it highly susceptible to the entry of staphylococcus into your body, resulting in infection.
When the pea-sized gland present in your vaginal opening gets blocked, it may develop into a cyst leading to infection.
Women who are overweight develop boils between the fold of their skin.
● Red bumps that are swollen.
● Clear fluid oozing out of the bumps.
● Pus-filled bumps that break open in the centre.
● Painful to touch.
● Fever.
● Swollen lymph nodes.
These Boils are quite risky. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications.
● The infection can spread to other parts of the body.
● It can lead to cellulitis, a deeper skin infection.
● Recurrent vaginal boil can lead to skin ulcers.
● When left untreated vaginal boil infection can infect your pelvic tissues, & impacting your reproductive organs like the uterus and fallopian tubes.
When the infection is severe, you may need medical help. Your healthcare provider will perform a physical examination of the pubic area. In case of recurring vaginal boils, your doctor may collect a sample to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection. On physical examination one finds fluid filled swelling/ bumps in vaginal area which are painful to touch.
Usually, you may not need any medical intervention as the boils will usually subside on their own. It is important that you treat vaginal boils when the infection is severe and you experience pain. Treatment for vaginal boils mostly involves the use of antibiotics. It helps fight bacterial infection, heal faster and prevent its recurrence. If the vaginal boils do not subside, then they must be drained or lanced by the healthcare provider. Further medical treatment will be needed to avoid the recurrence of the infection.
Occasionally, less severe vaginal boils can be treated with simple home remedies.
● Clean the vaginal area: Firstly, wash your hands with soap and then clean your vulva with water. You can use your hands or a soft cloth to clean the area. Pat dry after cleaning the pubic region. Make sure you wash your hands again.
● Wear clean, dry and breathable underwear: This helps the vaginal boil to heal faster.
● Apply a warm compress: Use a soft cotton pad dipped in warm water and apply it to the boil. This helps drain the boil and ease pain. Avoid reusing the compress.
● Go for sitz baths: This bath involves sitting on a basin with warm water and salt. This helps to drain out the boils and ease the pain.
Home remedies for vaginal boils are beneficial, but it can cause further damage when not done properly. Here’s what you must never do:
● Never squeeze or pop the boil
● Never vigorously wash or scrub the infected area
● Do not use fragrant soaps, tissues or lotions
It is not possible to completely prevent vaginal boils, but it is possible to reduce the risk of vaginal boils.
● Wash your genital area with an antibacterial soap
● Always shave in the direction of the growth of the pubic hair
● Change your razors often
● It is better to trim your pubic hair rather than shaving it
● Never share personal items
● Wear clean underwear
● Maintain the right weight
While vaginal boils often resolve on their own, persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Seeking medical advice is essential to ensure proper care and prevent complications. It’s natural to feel embarrassed, but your health and well-being are far more important. Doctors are trained to handle such concerns with care and professionalism, so don’t hesitate to reach out for the support you need.
The main cause behind the development of vaginal boils is the staph infection, a bacterial infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
Yes, you can treat vaginal boils with simple home remedies like cleansing the affected area, applying a warm compress and wearing loose underwear garments.
When you suffer from fever, chills and experience extreme pain along with the vaginal boil, you must consult a doctor.
● Practice good hygiene.
● Avoid sharing personal items.
● Prevent ingrown hairs.
● Wear loose and breathable undergarments.
