After getting the HPV vaccine, bumps appeared below.

Sep 17, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
In general, after receiving the HPV vaccine—short for human papillomavirus vaccine—the appearance of lumps at the injection site may be related to factors such as allergic reactions, incomplete absorption, conjugate reactions, bacterial infection, or genital warts. It is recommended that patients follow medical advice and receive symptomatic treatment accordingly. Additionally, such lumps could also be associated with vulvar folliculitis.

Generally, after receiving the HPV vaccine—referring to the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination—developing lumps in the genital area may be related to factors such as allergic reactions, incomplete absorption, coupling reactions, bacterial infections, or genital warts. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for symptomatic treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Allergic Reaction

If an individual comes into contact with allergens after receiving the HPV vaccine, or is inherently allergic to the HPV vaccine, it may cause adverse skin stimulation, leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, lumps, and pain in the external genital area. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as hydrocortisone butyrate cream or desonide cream may be used.

2. Incomplete Absorption

If a hard lump appears locally within a short time after HPV vaccination, it may result from incomplete absorption of the HPV vaccine. Applying local heat compresses and gentle massage may help promote the dissipation of the lump.

3. Coupling Reaction

The HPV vaccine contains proteins. If these proteins enter the body and undergo a coupling reaction with amino acids beneath the skin, they may damage skin tissue, resulting in the sudden appearance of multiple lumps or blisters. This is a relatively rare phenomenon but still considered a normal reaction. In most cases, symptoms gradually resolve once the body has fully absorbed the vaccine components, so excessive concern is unnecessary.

4. Bacterial Infection

Poor hygiene after vaccination may lead to bacterial infection of the external genitalia, causing lumps, redness, swelling, and pain. Maintaining proper personal hygiene is essential. When necessary, topical antibiotics such as mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid cream may be used under medical supervision to control the progression of skin lesions.

5. Genital Warts (Condyloma Acuminata)

Genital warts are primarily caused by infection with the human papillomavirus. The virus is usually transmitted through sexual contact, indirect contact, or from mother to child during childbirth. Common symptoms include itching of the external genitalia, increased vaginal discharge, and irregular vaginal bleeding. Patients may use medications such as imiquimod cream or podophyllotoxin cream under a doctor’s guidance for treatment.

In addition, the lumps could also be related to vulvar folliculitis. If patients experience any discomfort, they should seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.