Vaginal / vulval lesions, lumps and cysts

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

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

At Happiher, we offer expert, sensitive assessment and treatment for a range of 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, discreet setting.

Introduction to Vaginal Health

Common Causes of Vaginal and Vulval Lumps

There are several types of benign (non-cancerous) growths and changes that can appear in the vulval and vaginal area. Common examples include vaginal lumps and vaginal 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 require 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 sometimes become infected, requiring medical attention. Cysts can range in size from the size of a pea to that of an orange.

Types of Vaginal Lesions

Vaginal lesions can be caused by various factors, including infections, benign tumors, 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 usually do not cause symptoms. Vaginal inclusion cysts are the most common type of vaginal cyst, and they can cause symptoms such as 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. It’s essential to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of vaginal lesions, such as pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, or discharge.

When Is a Vulval or Vaginal Lesion 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 crucial for accurately identifying the nature of these conditions.

What Happens at a Gynaecology Assessment?

At Happiher, we take a gentle, respectful approach to intimate examinations, ensuring your comfort at every step.

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 found

We take 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 crucial for effective treatment and peace of mind.

Treatment Options 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 typically may be left alone or removed under local anaesthetic if painful or bothersome

Skin conditions: such as 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 clear 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, such as a lump or bump, it’s essential to 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 essential to be aware of the symptoms of vaginal cancer and to seek medical attention if you experience any unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge. By practicing good self-care and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can help 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, such as vaginal lumps or vaginal 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 calm environment

• Expert assessment from a female consultant gynaecologist, ensuring a proper diagnosis

• Quick access to diagnostic procedures and biopsy when needed

• Minor surgical treatment and follow-up care

• Clear, kind explanations every step of the way, grounded in comprehensive gynaecology

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

Final Thoughts

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 does not disappear after a few weeks, getting checked early can ease your worry, catch potential issues early, and often lead to simple, effective treatment.

At Happiher, we offer expert care with empathy — helping you feel informed, reassured, and back in control. While many conditions may go away on their own, seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen is always advisable.