Vaginal boils can be painful and worrying, but they are quite common. It resembles a pimple or cyst but is larger and more painful. They happen for different reasons, and knowing what they are, why they appear, and how to treat them can help you feel better and avoid them in the future. 

Even though these boils are common, they are mostly caused by infections, which can take a toll on your health, too, if they are not managed in a timely manner. So, to help you prevent and treat vaginal boils, let’s understand its causes, symptoms, and treatment, but first, start with what a vaginal boil is.

What is a Vaginal Boil?

A vaginal boil is a painful, pus-filled bump that forms under the skin near the vaginal area. These boils often occur when hair follicles or oil glands become infected. They start as small, red lumps but can grow larger and more painful over time. Eventually, they may burst and drain, releasing pus and reducing the pressure. Vaginal boils can cause significant discomfort and are usually caused by bacteria entering through minor cuts or skin irritations.

Causes of Vaginal Boils

• Bacterial Infection: The most common cause of vaginal boils is an infection by bacteria, especially Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria commonly found on the skin and in the nose. These bacteria can penetrate the skin through tiny cuts, scratches, or breaks, often caused by shaving, friction from clothing, or minor injuries. Once inside, they can infect hair follicles or oil glands, leading to the development of a painful, pus-filled boil. Keeping the area clean and avoiding unnecessary skin irritation can help prevent these infections.
   
• Blocked Hair Follicles: Hair follicles, the small sacs in the skin from which hairs grow, can become blocked by sweat, dead skin cells, or dirt. This blockage can create a warm, moist environment where bacteria grow, leading to an infection. When the hair follicle is infected, it can swell and form a boil. Wearing tight clothing, which causes friction, or not cleaning the area properly can increase the risk of hair follicles becoming blocked. It's important to maintain good hygiene and wear loose-fitting clothing to minimise friction.
   
• Ingrown Hairs: Shaving or waxing the pubic area can sometimes cause hair to grow back into the skin instead of rising out of the follicle. These ingrown hairs can irritate the skin and become infected, forming a boil. This is more likely to happen if the hair is cut very short or if the skin is not properly prepared before hair removal. To reduce the risk of ingrown hairs, consider exfoliating gently before shaving and using a sharp, clean razor. 
   
• Poor Hygiene: Not keeping the genital area clean can contribute to the development of boils. Sweat, dead skin cells, and bacteria can accumulate, especially in the folds of the skin, creating an environment where infections are more likely. Regularly washing the area with mild soap and water and drying it thoroughly helps remove these potential irritants and keeps the skin healthy. Good hygiene practices are essential in preventing the formation of boils.
   
• Weakened Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with chronic illnesses, diabetes, or those undergoing certain medical treatments, are more susceptible to infections. The immune system's job is to fight off bacteria and other harmful invaders, but if it’s not functioning well, bacteria can easily cause boils. People with weakened immune systems should take extra care to avoid cuts or abrasions and maintain good hygiene to reduce the risk of developing boils.
   
• Chronic Skin Conditions: Some chronic skin conditions, like Hidradenitis Suppurativa, can increase the likelihood of developing vaginal boils. Hidradenitis Suppurativa causes painful lumps under the skin, particularly in areas where the skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. These lumps can become inflamed and turn into boils. Managing chronic skin conditions with the help of a healthcare provider can reduce the frequency and severity of boils.

Symptoms of Vaginal Boils

• Red, Swollen Bump: Vaginal boils often begin as small, red, tender bumps in the genital area. They can appear anywhere around the vaginal lips, near the pubic region, or even on the inner thighs. At first, the boil may look similar to a pimple or a small cyst, but it quickly grows larger and more swollen as it fills with pus. The surrounding skin may also become red and irritated. This early stage of a boil can last for a few days and may be accompanied by mild discomfort.
   
• Pain and Tenderness: As the boil develops, it typically becomes more painful and tender to the touch. The pain can range from a mild ache to intense throbbing, especially as the boil grows larger. This discomfort can be noticeable during activities that put pressure on the area, such as sitting, walking, or exercising. The surrounding tissues may also feel sensitive and sore, making everyday movements uncomfortable. Pain is often the most distressing symptom of a boil and can significantly affect daily life.
   
• Heat and Discomfort: The skin around the vaginal boil often feels warm to the touch. This warmth shows that your body is working to fight off the infection by causing inflammation. The warmth is usually localised to the area immediately surrounding the boil and can sometimes extend to a broader region. Along with the heat, you might experience a general sense of discomfort and irritation. 
   
• Pus Drainage: Eventually, as the boil matures, it may burst and begin to drain pus. This usually happens when the boil reaches its peak size, and pressure inside it builds up. Pus is a thick fluid that contains bacteria, dead skin cells, and white blood cells. When the boil drains, a lot of this fluid can come out. Drainage often provides relief from the intense pain and pressure, but it can also be messy and may require careful cleaning to prevent further infection. After a boil drains, it’s important to keep the area clean and covered to promote healing and prevent the infection from spreading.

Treatment Options for Vaginal Boils

• Warm Compresses: Using a warm, damp cloth on the boil can help it heal faster. Place a warm compress on the boil for 15-20 minutes, three to four times a day. The warmth boosts blood flow to the area, helping the boil come to a head and drain naturally. This can provide relief from the pressure and pain as the boil drains. Always use a fresh cloth to prevent adding more bacteria to the area.
   
• Avoid Squeezing: Do not try to squeeze or pop the boil, even if it looks like it’s ready to burst. Squeezing can push the infection deeper into the skin or spread bacteria to nearby areas, leading to more boils or a more serious infection. Allow the boil to drain on its own, or seek medical assistance if necessary. Keeping hands off the boil and avoiding any pressure on the area can help ensure it heals properly.
   
• Antibiotics: If the boil is large, very painful, or not improving with home care, a doctor might prescribe antibiotics. These can be taken orally or applied as a cream or ointment directly to the boil. Antibiotics kill the bacteria that cause the infection and can speed up the healing process. It's important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent resistance.
   
• Pain Relief: You can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications can ease your pain and make you feel better while the boil heals. Follow the dosage instructions on the package, and consult with a doctor if you have any concerns or if the pain persists.
   
• Medical Drainage: In some cases, especially if the boil is large or not draining on its own, a doctor may need to perform a lancing procedure. A small cut in the boil is done to let the pus drain out. This procedure can quickly relieve pain and reduce pressure from the boil. It’s performed under sterile conditions to reduce the risk of spreading the infection. After the procedure, the area is usually cleaned and covered with a sterile bandage, and follow-up care may include antibiotics and regular cleaning of the site.

Conclusion

Vaginal boils, while often painful and inconvenient, can be managed effectively with proper care and hygiene. Understanding their causes, symptoms, and treatment options helps address the issue promptly and prevent future occurrences. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe boils, consulting the best gynaecologist in Delhi at MASSH is essential for effective management. Our specialists can help you understand the underlying cause of the recurrent vaginal boils and help you incorporate lifestyle changes that can help you treat the condition. In case the condition requires medical treatment, we can help you with all types of medicinal and therapeutic treatments that can treat the problem from its core. Check out our website to learn more about our extensive experience treating gynaecological problems and feel free to visit us to consult with our specialists directly.