Vaginal / vulval lesions, lumps and cysts

Vaginal Lesions: What’s Normal and When to Seek Help

Finding a lump, bump or lesion in the vaginal or vulval area can be worrying. Many of these are harmless — but it’s completely natural to feel concerned and want reassurance. Comprehensive gynaecology is key to understanding various benign gynaecologic lesions and their management.

At Happiher, we offer expert, sensitive care and treatment for all vulval and vaginal conditions. If you’re looking for a private gynaecologist in London for peace of mind or treatment, we’re here to help in a calm, confidential setting.

Vaginal Health

Common Vaginal and Vulval Lumps

There are many types of benign (non-cancerous) growths and changes that can appear in the vulval and vaginal area. Here are some common examples of vaginal lumps and bumps:

Bartholin’s cysts: a fluid-filled swelling near the vaginal opening caused by blockage of the Bartholin’s gland, often felt as a soft lump

Sebaceous cysts: small cysts, firm lumps under the skin from blocked hair follicles or oil glands

Fordyce spots: tiny, pale or white bumps that are completely harmless and don’t need treatment

Skin tags: soft, flesh-coloured growths that can develop due to friction or hormonal changes

Vestibular papillomatosis: small, symmetrical projections near the vaginal entrance that are often mistaken for warts, but are completely normal

Gartner’s duct cysts: vaginal wall cysts resulting from embryological structures that didn’t fully disappear

Other possibilities include lipomas (fatty lumps), inclusion cysts (after surgery or trauma), or swollen lymph nodes from local irritation or infection. These lumps can become infected and need medical attention. Cysts can range in size from a pea to an orange.Vaginal lesions can be caused by many things including infections, benign tumours and sexually transmitted infections. One of the most common types of vaginal lesions is a vaginal cyst, which is a closed pocket or pouch of tissue that can be filled with air, fluid, pus or other material. Most vaginal cysts don’t cause symptoms. Vaginal inclusion cysts are the most common type of vaginal cyst and can cause symptoms like discomfort, pain or a feeling of pressure in the vaginal area. Other types of vaginal lesions include Bartholin’s cysts which are caused by a blockage of the Bartholin glands and Gartner’s duct cysts which are caused by a blockage of the Gartner duct. If you experience any symptoms of vaginal lesions like pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding or discharge you should seek medical attention.

When Is a Vulval or Vaginal Lesion a Cause for Concern?

While most lumps and bumps are benign some signs may warrant further investigation:

• Changes in colour, texture or shape

• Persistent itching, pain or discomfort

• Ulceration or open sores that don’t heal

• Bleeding from the lesion

• Hard, fixed or irregular lumps

• Rapid growth or spreading lesions

• Unusual discharge or odour

• A new lump that persists beyond a few weeks

These symptoms along with other symptoms like unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge may suggest a skin condition (like lichen sclerosus or eczema), infection (e.g. HPV or herpes) or in rare cases a pre-cancerous or cancerous lesion. Vulvar and vaginal cancers are rare but can present as lumps or masses in the affected areas. Proper diagnosis is key to accurately identifying the nature of these conditions.

What Happens at a Gynaecology Assessment?

At Happiher we take a gentle, respectful approach to intimate examinations, so you feel comfortable every step of the way.

Your assessment may include:

• A discussion of your symptoms and concerns

• Visual inspection and gentle examination of the vulval or vaginal area

• Physical examination and physical exam to assess lumps, bumps or cysts

• Swabs or cultures if infection is suspected

• Colposcopy or vulvoscopy (a closer look using a magnifying lens) if needed

• A biopsy (small tissue sample) if anything abnormal is foundWe take the time to explain what we’re doing, what we see and what next steps are — always with your full consent and comfort in mind. Proper diagnosis is key to effective treatment and peace of mind.

Treatment for Lumps, Lesions or Cysts

Treatment depends on the cause, size, location and your symptoms. If a cyst becomes infected a doctor can drain it.

Bartholin’s cysts: may require drainage, marsupialisation (creating a small opening) or removal if recurrent. Bartholin gland cysts are often diagnosed using MRI to distinguish them from other cystic lesions.

Sebaceous or inclusion cysts: cysts are usually left alone or removed under local anaesthetic if painful or bothersome

Skin conditions: lichen sclerosus, eczema or genital herpes may be treated with steroid creams, emollients or specialist dermatology support

Suspicious lesions: benign lesions may be biopsied or referred for further management with full support and guidance throughout

At Happiher we also offer minor procedures in a comfortable outpatient setting with prompt referrals for surgery if needed.

Prevention and Self-Care

Preventing vaginal lesions and other conditions affecting the vagina requires good hygiene, regular check-ups with a healthcare provider and practicing safe sex to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. Wearing natural materials, avoiding tight clothing and keeping the genitals cool can also help prevent infections. If you experience any symptoms of vaginal lesions like a lump or bump you should seek medical attention. Most vaginal bumps and lumps can be managed at home. A sitz bath or warm bath can help relieve symptoms and in some cases a cyst may need to be drained or surgically removed. It’s also important to be aware of the symptoms of vaginal cancer and seek medical attention if you experience any unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge. By practicing good self-care and seeking medical attention when needed you can maintain good vaginal health and reduce the risk of vaginal lesions and other conditions.

Emotional Impact and Reassurance

It’s normal to feel anxious or embarrassed about changes in intimate areas like vaginal lumps or bumps. But these concerns are more common than you think — and help is available.

At Happiher we treat every concern with respect and compassion. There is no such thing as a “silly” question and your comfort is always our priority.### Why Choose Happiher for Vulval and Vaginal Concerns?

If you’re looking for a specialist in vaginal or vulval lumps in London, Happiher offers:

• Private, discreet consultations in a peaceful environment

• Expert assessment from a female consultant gynaecologist for proper diagnosis

• Quick access to diagnostic procedures and biopsy if needed

• Minor surgical treatment and follow up care

• Clear, kind explanations every step of the way backed up by comprehensive gynaecology

• We believe your comfort, clarity and peace of mind are just as important as clinical accuracy.

Conclusion

If you’ve noticed a new lump, lesion or change in your vaginal or vulval area you don’t have to monitor it alone. If the lump doesn’t go away after a few weeks getting checked early can ease your worry, catch any problems early and often means simple treatment.

At Happiher we offer expert care with empathy — helping you feel informed, reassured and back in control. While many conditions will go away on their own, getting checked if symptoms persist or worsen is always recommended.