Pimples occurring in the vaginal area are often caused by an outbreak of acne or by contact dermatitis. Acne is caused by a combination of hyperactive oil glands and an abnormal rate of skin shedding. Hormones are another major culprit with many a woman developing acne during pregnancy and around the time of her menstrual periods. Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin which usually occurs as an allergic reaction to certain products such as skin creams, hair creams and moisturizing and lubricating lotions.
Most often, contact dermatitis can be treated by discontinuing the cause of the allergic reaction or by using corticosteroids and antihistamines to treat the allergy. Acne on the other hand can be treated with either hormone based medications or with topical ointments.
Other types of infections that may also cause pimples in and around the vagina include viral, bacterial and yeast infections.
Yeast infections such as an outbreak of candida albicans, may also cause skin irritation resulting in the formation of small sores and pimples. The resulting itching and burning sensations can be extremely distressing and great care must be taken if you are not to infect your sexual partner as well.
Viral infections such as herpes may also cause pimple like blemishes around the vagina. Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection and the resulting lesions can be extremely painful. They can spread to other parts of the body and can be passed on to your sexual partner.
Bacterial infections such as syphilis and chancroid can also cause pimples in the vaginal area. Those caused by syphilis can be quite painful and both these conditions can be quite contagious.
An outbreak of pimples in the vaginal area needs to be treated with great care. The area around and inside the vagina is extremely delicate and sensitive. While a growth in this area will have the same reddish, raised lump with a whitish top as a pimple, it need not necessarily be a pimple. It could instead, be a symptom of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as genital warts or any of the other types of infections mentioned earlier. For this reason it is important to consult a doctor immediately after noticing pimples in the vaginal area.
Another reason for seeking a medical opinion immediately is the fact that left untreated, many of these infections can cause severe complications. Acne for example, can result in the development of cysts resulting in ugly scars. Herpes left untreated, can result in loss of vision and on rare occasion, meningitis and even death. Syphilis too can prove to be fatal and can even infect your unborn child.
The cure for pimples on your vagina will depend on the underlying cause. Yeast infections can be treated using antifungal medications and a specialized diet. Bacterial infections can be treated with the help of antibiotics and other medications. Viral infections can be treated using antiviral agents, topical medications, freezing therapy or surgery.
If your doctor has ruled out any serious infection as the cause of the pimples around your vagina, then you can try certain home remedies to deal with the problem. Here are a few measures that you can take that will help lessen the discomfort.
The most important of these is the maintenance of proper hygiene. Pimples in the facial area are caused because oily secretions combine with dead skin to block the pores of the skin and the same holds true for the area around the vagina. Using an antibacterial soap to regularly clean your groin area can help keep it free of pimples. If you find this too harsh, you may try a milder soap or any cleansing agent. Check for skin allergies before trying out a new product. Wash regularly with warm water and dry it gently using a gentle dabbing motion. Do not try pricking or bursting the pimple as this may lead to an infection.
A soft cloth that has been soaked in warm or hot water can be placed over the affected area. This will soften the skin and relieve you of the pain. It will also cause the pimple to burst on its own.
Another effective home remedy is a sitz bath using Epsom salts. This can soothe and cleanse the affected area and may also cause the pimples to clear up. Use about half a cup of Epsom salts in about three inches of water and sit in it for about 20 minutes. Dry thoroughly with a gentle dabbing motion.
For a pimple outbreak caused by a yeast infection you can try changing your diet. Eat a lot of probiotic foods such as yogurt and avoid sweetened foods. Yogurt douches can also help to clear up yeast infections.
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