A hard lump has developed on the vulva, but it is not painful or itchy. What should I do?
Nov 08, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, a painless and non-itchy hard lump on the vulva may be caused by conditions such as pseudo-warts, lipoma, sebaceous cyst, Bartholin's cyst, or genital warts, and management depends on the specific situation. If a painless, non-itchy hard lump appears on the vulva, it is important to closely monitor any changes, and seek timely medical attention if abnormalities occur, to achieve an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Generally, a painless and non-itchy hard lump on the vulva may be caused by factors such as pseudo-warts, lipomas, sebaceous cysts, Bartholin's cysts, or genital warts (condyloma acuminata), and management depends on the specific condition.
1. Pseudo-warts: These may be related to long-term chronic inflammatory stimulation, increased vaginal discharge, poor local hygiene, and other factors, which can lead to benign proliferation of the vulvar mucosa and skin, forming pseudo-warts. Usually, no specific treatment is required. Patients should maintain good vulvar hygiene, change underwear frequently, and avoid using irritating cleansing agents to wash the vulva.
2. Lipoma: Lipomas are generally soft in texture, but some may present as harder masses. They are usually round or lobulated, well-defined, and mobile, and typically do not cause symptoms such as pain or itching. Regular follow-up is recommended to monitor any changes.
3. Sebaceous Cyst: The vulvar skin contains abundant sebaceous glands. When sebaceous gland ducts become blocked due to factors such as dust accumulation or bacterial infection, the sebum produced by the sebaceous glands cannot be discharged and accumulates within the gland, forming a sebaceous cyst. Small sebaceous cysts without obvious symptoms can be observed temporarily. If the cyst gradually enlarges or signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pain appear, prompt medical attention is advised, and surgical removal of the cyst may be necessary.
4. Bartholin's Cyst: When local injury leads to scar formation or long-term chronic inflammation causes obstruction of the Bartholin's gland, the mucus secreted by the gland cannot drain normally and accumulates within the gland cavity, forming a cyst. Regular gynecological examinations are recommended to monitor changes in the cyst. If the cyst becomes large or secondary infection leads to abscess formation, surgical treatment is required, such as marsupialization of the Bartholin's cyst or incision and drainage.
5. Genital Warts (Condyloma Acuminata): Genital warts are sexually transmitted infections caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). They are primarily transmitted through sexual contact but can also be contracted indirectly through contaminated objects such as towels, bathrobes, or toilet seats. If a hard lump resembling genital warts appears on the vulva, prompt medical consultation is necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Under a doctor's guidance, appropriate treatment options such as cryotherapy or laser therapy can be selected to remove the warts.
If a painless and non-itchy hard lump appears on the vulva, it is important to closely monitor any changes. If abnormalities occur, timely medical consultation is necessary for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment measures.
