Vulvar Abscesses

A vulvar abscess is a painful lump under the skin near the vagina. It happens when bacteria get into the skin through a cut, scrape, or something like an ingrown hair. Your body traps the germs by making a pocket of pus, which is the abscess. The most common germ causing this is staphylococcus, which often lives on your skin.

Some of the most common symptoms of a vulvar abscess include a painful lump near the vaginal opening, redness, swelling, and a warm sensation. Some patients may also notice a fever, vaginal discharge, or pain during sex.

A vulvar abscess is diagnosed with a pelvic exam by an experienced gynecologist. We will look for any painful or swollen lumps in the vulva area. Once you have a diagnosis, then we can also provide you with the right treatment for your needs.

Unfortunately, it’s very unlikely for a vulvar abscess to heal on its own. While smaller abscesses can be helped with soaks in warm water, many abscesses need to be surgically drained by an experienced gynecologist. When left untreated, the abscess can rupture on its own and lead to the spread of the infection.

Vulvar abscesses can be treated in multiple ways. At-home treatments like warm compresses, loose-fitting clothing, and over-the-counter pain medications can all help address a vulvar abscess. Keeping the vaginal area clean with soap and water is also vital. If the abscess is large and doesn’t go away with at-home remedies, it may need to be drained by one of our doctors. We can do this right in the office with local anesthesia.

Yes, vulvar abscesses can be contagious. They can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, especially if the abscess is leaking.

Yes, even after medical treatment, a vulvar abscess can come back. Underlying conditions, incomplete treatment, and fluid blockage can all lead to the return of the abscess. We will provide recommendations to prevent recurrence if this is the case.

To help your vulvar abscess heal at home, you’ll want to take frequent warm water baths, take over-the-counter pain medication to help with your discomfort, and keep the area clean and dry. If there is a bandage over the abscess site, make sure to change it regularly.

If your vulvar abscess is very painful, increasing in size, or is becoming worse, it’s crucial to see a doctor. This is especially the case if you’re experiencing a fever, increased redness, or swelling. There’s no reason to suffer from a vulvar abscess. These things happen, and we are here to help.