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Topics: Health, Sex and Relationships
Lucy Devine
Noticing pimples or spots on your genitals can be daunting, but there are a number of harmless explanations as to why you might get them on your labia.
A pimple is generally a small bump on the surface of the skin. It's usually due to clogged pores and can affect any area of skin on your body, including the genitals.
You might also have noticed small, flesh-coloured 'bumps' on the vulva, which - although not strictly pimples - can have a number of different causes.
According to Flo, these can include conditions such as folliculitis, contact dermatitis, molluscum contagiosum and Hidradenitis suppurativa.
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So what are these conditions? And how are they treated? Let's get into it.
Folliculitis is particularly common and usually causes small bumps on the labia majora.
The skin condition is usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection that enters the hair follicles.
It can cause an itchy and sometimes painful rash, and shaving pubic hair often increases the risk of developing the condition.
While it usually goes away on its own, there are treatments if it persists.
Flo says that, generally, it's best to avoid shaving and wearing tight underwear. Instead, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton.
Contact dermatitis often occurs due to contact with certain products around the genital region.
This can include shower gels, scented sanitary wear, creams, washing powders and condoms.
The materials and chemicals can irritate the vulva which can lead to small, itchy bumps developing.
Other symptoms can include burning sensations around the skin; patches that look redder or darker; patches that feel thicker than surrounding skin and pain during sex or when inserting a tampon.
According to Flo, the best treatment is trying to establish what's causing the irritation and to cut it out completely.
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that causes round and painless bumps.
It spreads through skin-to-skin contact - including sexual contact - and via infected objects.
It usually clears by itself within six to 12 months, however it can also be treated orally or topically.
Hidradenitis suppurativa causes small, painful lumps under the skin which often develop near sweat glands or in areas which rub together, such as the genitals, the buttocks and the armpits.
Mayo Clinic explains that the lumps can heal, before recurring which can lead to tunnels under the skin and scarring.
The condition can be managed via a combination or medication and sometimes, surgery.
'Pimples' and bumps on the genitals could also be a result of genital warts, or genital herpes.
If you are concerned about any changes, it's important to seek medical advice.