"What Causes the Prominent Fleshy Mass at the Vaginal Entrance?"

Causes and Management of Abnormalities in the Vaginal Area

If a woman discovers a lump protruding from the vaginal opening, it is crucial to understand the underlying reasons. There are primarily two aspects that may contribute to this phenomenon: inappropriate self-care, physiological structure, and inflammation. For instance, conditions like vaginitis can lead to mucosal hyperplasia, causing swelling and other symptoms. Let's briefly delve into this topic.

Understanding Lumps Protruding from the Vaginal Opening

If you encounter a hard, unevenly surfaced lump at the upper part of the vaginal opening, it is likely the normal anterior vaginal wall, and there's no need for concern. However, if accompanied by itching and excessive vaginal discharge, it could indicate an inflammatory condition. In such cases, it's necessary to consult a doctor for a vaginal smear test and receive targeted treatment.

Reasons for Itching and Pain in the Vulva

1. Physiological Structure: The vulva experiences friction from the thighs during movement, which can cause sweating. The skin in this area is exposed to menstrual blood, vaginal secretions, and is adjacent to the urethra and anus, making it susceptible to urine and other contaminants. Thus, when using toilet paper, it's crucial to wipe from front to back to prevent infections.

2. Inappropriate Clothing: Frequently wearing synthetic underwear with poor breathability can lead to moisture and heat accumulation. If underwear is contaminated with mold or contains additives like fluorescent brighteners or fluff pulp, it can cause chronic skin inflammation and vulvar itching. Choosing loose, breathable, and high-quality underwear, as well as changing and washing them frequently, is advisable.

3. Skin Allergies: Certain medications taken orally or used for vaginal irrigation can cause allergic reactions or contact dermatitis, leading to vulvar itching. Additionally, some women may experience allergies to semen, silicone oil on condoms, or friction during sexual intercourse. It's recommended that women avoid drug abuse and refrain from sexual activity during treatment.

4. Pathological Causes: Multiple conditions can cause vulvar itching and require prompt medical attention. Common examples include:

• Vulvar Inflammation: such as nonspecific vaginitis, fungal vaginitis, and trichomoniasis.
• Vulvar Parasitic Diseases: like pubic lice, pinworms, and scabies.
• Systemic Diseases Manifesting in the Vulva: including diabetes, anemia, and vitamin A or B deficiencies.
• Other Skin Conditions: like verrucae vulgaris, herpes, and eczema.