The vulva can be affected by a wide variety of skin conditions, cysts, infections, and inflammatory disorders. Symptoms such as itching, burning, pain, skin color changes, bumps, sores, or persistent irritation are common reasons women seek gynecologic care.
While many vulvar conditions are benign and treatable, persistent symptoms should not be ignored. Some conditions require long-term treatment or monitoring, while others may occasionally require a vulvar biopsy to establish the correct diagnosis.
The resources below provide information about common vulvar skin conditions, cysts, ulcers, HPV-related lesions, and other causes of vulvar symptoms.
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When should I see a Healthcare Provider?
Schedule an evaluation if you experience:
• Persistent itching, burning, or irritation
• A new lump or bump that does not resolve
• Painful sores or ulcers
• Skin color or texture changes
• Bleeding, cracking, or open areas of the skin
• Symptoms that do not improve with routine self-care
Many vulvar conditions have similar symptoms but require different treatments. A physical examination—and occasionally a vulvar biopsy—may be necessary to establish the correct diagnosis and guide treatment.
Several chronic inflammatory skin conditions can affect the vulva and cause itching, burning, pain, skin discoloration, or changes in vulvar architecture. Common conditions include contact dermatitis, lichen sclerosus, and lichen planus. Although these conditions are not contagious, many require long-term treatment and follow-up to help control symptoms and prevent complications.
Many vulvar lumps are benign and may represent cysts, skin tags, blocked glands, or other non-cancerous conditions. However, any new, persistent, rapidly growing, or painful lump should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
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