Lumps like zits on vagina

I have more than one zit like lumps on my vagina. It hurts to walk and pee because of them. I have had sorness for about a week and then these bumps started appearing. I don't think it could be herpes because I have never had sex. I have had oral sex in the past, could this lead to herpes? What else could this possibly be. I just want the pain to go away because I have a busy week coming up.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

It sounds like a boil or swollen lymph node. Boils are caused by infection of the hair follicle by staph aureus.Hair follicles that are blocked by greasy creams, petroleum jelly, or similar products are more vulnerable to infection. Bacterial skin infections can be spread by shared cosmetics or washcloths, close human contact, or by contact with pus from a boil or carbuncle.

Pls keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove.Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful.In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed.Pls consult a dermatologist in that case.Also then get herpes ruled out as oral sex can also cause herpes.

Hope it helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or in case you have additional queries. Kind regards.