What Could Be the Cause of Lumps in the Vagina?

Generally, a woman's vagina should not have any unpleasant odor, and the vaginal discharge should be normal, unless there are gynecological issues. However, if small bumps are noticed on the vagina, it could be a sign of common vaginal infections or condylomata acuminata, often caused by unsafe sexual practices. As a sexually transmitted disease, such conditions should be promptly addressed by seeking medical attention.

Small bumps on the external genitalia may be indicative of Bartholin's cyst. The outlet of the Bartholin's gland is located on the inner side of the labia minora, making it susceptible to bacterial invasion and inflammation. Typically, bacteria first invade the epithelium of the Bartholin's duct, causing swelling of the mucosa or adhesions due to damage to the ductal tissue, resulting in blockage and accumulation of secretions, which leads to the formation of a Bartholin's cyst. These cysts are often unilateral and vary in size.

Another possible cause of small bumps on the external genitalia is vulvitis. This condition is caused by irritation of the skin of the external genitalia by vaginal discharge, which may result from bacterial, fungal, or trichomonal vaginitis. In daily life, the external genitalia is prone to contamination with urine, feces, and vaginal discharge, keeping the skin in a moist environment conducive to bacterial growth. If there are scratches on the vulvar skin, improper hygiene, or decreased immune function, the hair follicles and surrounding tissue may be infected by Staphylococcus and other bacteria, leading to local vulvitis and vulvar eczema.

This condition is caused by irritation from general vaginal inflammation and excessive vaginal discharge, and is known as pseudo-condylomata acuminata. Pseudo-condylomata acuminata manifest as velvety or fish-egg-like protrusions on the inner side of the labia minora, which can be pink or slightly transparent and uniform in size. They are asymptomatic and do not require treatment.

Another possible cause of small bumps on the external genitalia is condylomata acuminata, which is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. This disease is mainly transmitted through unsafe sexual practices and is considered a sexually transmitted disease. Currently, in urological and sexual health clinics, the majority of cases of bumps on the external genitalia in women are diagnosed as condylomata acuminata. Therefore, women should take note of any bumps on their external genitalia and seek prompt medical attention for diagnosis and treatment.