What Is an Abscess of Vulva and How Is It Treated?

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Vineela Medapati , Gynecologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

An abscess of the vulva is a collection of pus that forms in the tissues of the vulva, which is the outer part of the female genitalia. This condition can be caused by a bacterial infection that enters the skin through a cut or a hair follicle. The bacteria then multiply, leading to the formation of pus and the development of an abscess.

Other factors that can contribute to the development of a vulvar abscess include poor hygiene, skin conditions, or blocked sweat glands. It is essential to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a vulvar abscess to prevent complications and receive appropriate treatment.

What Are the Symptoms of Abscess Of Vulva?

An abscess of the vulva can cause symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected area. You may also experience fever, chills, and general discomfort. The skin over the abscess may feel warm and appear inflamed.

In some cases, there may be pus drainage or a visible lump. If you notice these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention for proper evaluation and treatment to prevent complications.

Redness and swelling in the vulvar area can be a symptom of an abscess, causing discomfort and pain.
Presence of a tender lump or bump around the vulva, which may be warm to the touch, can indicate an abscess. Fever and chills, along with general malaise, might accompany a vulvar abscess due to the body's inflammatory response.
Pus or discharge draining from the abscess site can be a sign of infection and the need for medical evaluation. Pain or discomfort during urination or sexual intercourse can occur with a vulvar abscess, impacting daily activities and quality of life.

What Are the Causes of Abscess Of Vulva?

Poor hygiene practices, such as not cleaning the genital area properly, can also contribute to the development of abscesses. Additionally, conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa, which causes recurrent abscesses in areas with sweat glands, can increase the risk of vulvar abscess formation.

In some cases, sexually transmitted infections may also lead to abscesses in the vulva region. It is essential to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment of vulvar abscesses to prevent complications.

Poor hygiene practices can lead to the development of a vulvar abscess due to bacterial infiltration and subsequent infection.
Ingrown hairs or blocked sweat glands in the vulvar area can cause abscess formation as bacteria proliferate in these environments.
Trauma or injury to the vulva can introduce bacteria, leading to an abscess as the body tries to contain and fight the infection.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as herpes or chlamydia can cause abscesses in the vulva if left untreated, leading to localized infections.
Chronic conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders can compromise the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to vulvar abscesses.

When to See a Doctor for Abscess Of Vulva?

A vulvar abscess can cause debilitating pain, making sitting or walking nearly impossible. If the infection spreads, it may lead to high fever or systemic illness, requiring hospital admission for intravenous antibiotics or professional surgical drainage to prevent further complications.

You should see a doctor if you have:

A painful, swollen lump that is increasing in size.
Redness or warmth spreading around the genital area.
A persistent lump that fails to drain or heal on its own.

Get medical help immediately if:

You experience a high fever, chills, or sudden dizziness.
The pain becomes severe and unresponsive to over-the-counter meds.
You notice red streaks extending from the site of the abscess.

These could be signs of a serious complication like Sepsis, which needs urgent care.

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What Are the Diagnosis of Abscess Of Vulva?

They may inquire about symptoms like pain, swelling, and discharge. Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI can help visualize the abscess and determine its extent. In some cases, a sample of the fluid from the abscess may be collected for laboratory analysis to identify the causative bacteria.

Additionally, blood tests can be conducted to assess for signs of infection or inflammation. The combination of these diagnostic methods helps healthcare professionals accurately diagnose and plan appropriate treatment for vulvar abscesses.

Physical examination by a healthcare provider to assess the area of swelling and tenderness on the vulva.
Ultrasound imaging to visualize the abscess and determine its size and location within the vulvar tissues.
Blood tests may be conducted to check for signs of infection, such as elevated white blood cell count.
Swab culture of the abscess fluid to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection for targeted treatment.
MRI scan may be recommended in complex cases to further evaluate the extent and complications of the abscess.

What Are the Treatment for Abscess Of Vulva?

Treatment options for an abscess of the vulva typically involve a combination of medical interventions to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

Treatment for an abscess of the vulva focuses on relieving pain, controlling infection, and preventing recurrence. Early medical care can help reduce complications and speed up recovery.

Common Treatments for Vulvar Abscess

Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses several times a day may help reduce swelling, improve blood flow, and ease discomfort.
Antibiotics: Doctors may prescribe antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection causing the abscess, especially if fever or severe inflammation is present.
Drainage Procedure: In many cases, the abscess needs to be drained to remove pus and promote faster healing. This is usually done by a healthcare professional under sterile conditions.
Pain Relief Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended to manage pain and inflammation.
Surgical Treatment: Large, deep, or recurrent vulvar abscesses may require minor surgical treatment to completely remove infected tissue and prevent future infections.

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What Are the Types Of Abscess Of Vulva?

Abscesses of the vulva can be classified into different types based on their location and underlying causes. Some common types include Bartholin's abscess, which occurs when the Bartholin's glands become blocked and infected, leading to a painful lump near the vaginal opening.

Another type is a Skene's gland abscess, resulting from an infection of the Skene's glands located around the urethra. Hidradenitis suppurativa can also cause abscesses in the vulvar area due to inflammation of the hair follicles and sweat glands. Proper diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare provider are essential for managing vulvar abscesses effectively.

Bartholin's abscess: This type of abscess occurs when a Bartholin gland becomes blocked, leading to the accumulation of pus.
Hidradenitis suppurativa: A chronic skin condition where abscesses form in areas with sweat glands, such as the vulva.
Skene's duct abscess: Abscesses that develop in the Skene's glands, which are located near the urethra in the vulva.
Pilonidal abscess: While more common in the sacral region, pilonidal abscesses can occasionally occur in the vulvar area.
Apocrine gland abscess: Abscesses that form in the apocrine glands due to

What Are the Risk Factors Of Abscess Of Vulva?

Abscess of the vulva can occur due to various risk factors such as poor hygiene practices, skin trauma or injury, sexually transmitted infections, underlying skin conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa, and compromised immune system. Other contributing factors may include diabetes, obesity, and smoking.

Inadequate wound care after childbirth or surgery can also increase the risk of developing a vulvar abscess. It is essential to maintain good hygiene, address any underlying health conditions, and seek prompt medical attention for any signs of infection in the vulvar area to reduce the risk of abscess formation.

Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing regularly, can increase the risk of developing an abscess in the vulva.
Conditions that weaken the immune system, like diabetes or HIV, may make individuals more susceptible to vulva abscesses.
Trauma or injury to the vulva area, such as from shaving or rough sexual activity, can lead to the formation of abscesses.
Blocked sweat glands or hair follicles in the vulva region can become infected and contribute to abscess development.
Chronic skin conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa, which cause recurrent inflammation and infections, can raise the risk of vulva abscesses.