Vaginal pimples: What is it, symptoms, causes and ways to treat it

The vulva, or exterior region of the female genitalia, is a delicate area that is prone to infections. One of the most common problems that many women experience at least once in their lives is vaginal pimples. Also known as vaginal acne or vaginal bumps, vaginal pimples are small, raised lesions that can appear on the external part of the genitalia. These bumps can vary in size, colour, and appearance and may be accompanied by symptoms such as itching, discomfort, or pain. If you have vaginal pimples, incorporating these effective home remedies to treat vaginal pimples can be helpful. Here’s everything you need to know about vaginal pimples, their causes, and how to treat them.

What is a vaginal pimple?

A vaginal pimple is a pus-filled lump that appears outside the vaginal canal due to clogged hair follicles or oil glands. It is just like any other pimple you might have on your face or body. Pimples can be red, white, or black, and they can also be irritating or painful,” says obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Sunita Goyal.

What are the causes of vaginal pimples?

1. Ingrown hair

Ingrown hair is commonly caused by shaving, waxing, or plucking pubic hair. A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that 32.7 percent of women who shaved their pubic hair experienced ingrown hair at some time. Thus, when hair follicles become trapped or grow back into the skin after shaving or waxing, they can cause inflammation and pimples in the genital areas.

2. Folliculitis

“Pimples in the vaginal area may be caused by a bacterial infection of the hair follicle. Shaving your pubic hair is a possible cause of folliculitis. As your hair grows out of the follicle, it curls back towards the skin, developing irritation. Sometimes the hair grows back into the skin (ingrown hair), explains the expert.

3. Contact dermatitis

Allergic reactions or irritation from certain products such as soaps, detergents, perfumes, or laundry detergents can lead to the development of vaginal pimples which scientifically is termed contact dermatitis, according to a study published in the Allergies MDPI Journal.

4. Hormonal changes

“Hormonal changes can lead to the production of vaginal pimples. Pregnancy, menstrual cycles, and menopause can all cause hormonal changes, says the expert.

What are the symptoms of vaginal pimples?

• Small, red, raised bumps resembling pimples.
• Discomfort or itching in the vaginal area.
• When you touch the affected area, you may experience pain or soreness.
• Discharge or fluid-filled lesions in some cases.
• Inflammation or swelling of the surrounding skin.

5 effective home remedies for vaginal pimples

Here are some of the easy home remedies to treat vaginal pimples, as explained by the expert.

1. Warm compress

A warm compress helps to reduce inflammation, soothe discomfort, and promote healing by improving blood circulation to the affected area, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Method:

• Soak a clean washcloth in warm water.
• Wring out the excess water and fold the cloth.
• Gently apply the warm compress to the affected area for 10-15 minutes.
• Repeat several times a day for relief.

2. Tea tree oil pack

Tea tree oil contains natural antibacterial qualities and can be used as an efficient natural remedy for pimples, as found in a study published in the Antioxidants MDPI Journal. However, more research is needed to determine whether tea tree oil is effective for vaginal pimples or not.

Ingredients:

• A few drops of tea tree oil
• A few drops of coconut or olive oil
• Cotton balls

Method:

• Apply a few drops of tea tree oil with carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, to the pimple with a cotton swab.
• Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes before washing it with warm water.

3. Aloe vera gel

Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory qualities that can aid in soothing inflamed skin and reduce swelling, according to a study published in the International Journal of Aromatherapy. However, more research is needed to understand whether aloe vera gel is effective for treating vaginal pimples.

Ingredients:

Method:

• Simply apply a tiny amount of aloe vera gel to the vaginal pimples.
• Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing it off with warm water.

4. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar, a natural astringent, can help dry out pimples and prevent infection. Moreover, apple cider vinegar contains antibacterial compounds such as acetic acid, chlorogenic acid, polyphenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, and glycosides, as per a study published in the Journal of Research in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of water
• Cotton balls

Method:

• Mix equal volumes of apple cider vinegar and water, then apply to the pimple with a cotton ball.
• Leave the mixture on for about 10 minutes before rinsing it off.

5. Epsom salt

Epsom salt is a natural exfoliator that can help remove dead skin cells and clear clogged pores, explains the expert. However, there is no scientific study to prove that Epsom salt can be an easy natural remedy to treat vaginal pimples. Also, consult your doctor before using it.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt
• 2-3 tablespoons of lukewarm water

Method:

• Mix 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt with warm water to form a paste, and gently apply it to the affected area.
• Leave it on for 10-15 minutes to exfoliate it, then rinse it off.

How can I prevent vaginal pimples?

There are steps you can take to prevent certain causes of genital pimples, as explained by the expert.

• Avoid tight-fitting pants or underwear.
• Choose underwear made of cotton or any breathable material.
• Wash your genital area daily with a mild soap.
• Promptly change out of sweaty clothes.
• Trim pubic hair instead of shaving.
• Switch pads and tampons frequently when you have your periods.

Are there any side effects of natural remedies?

While these home remedies are generally safe for treating vaginal pimples, it is highly advisable to conduct a patch test and consult your doctor before using them.