There is a hard knot on the vulva

Induration of the vulva may be a symptom of diseases such as folliculitis, Bartholin's cyst, vulvar boil, sebaceous cyst or vulvar tumor. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly for a clear diagnosis and avoid self-treatment.

1. Folliculitis

Bacterial infection of vulvar hair follicles may form red, indurated knots that may be accompanied by pain or pus. It may be related to insufficient local cleaning and friction from clothing. You can use mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream and other antibiotics as directed by your doctor, while keeping the perineum dry and breathable.

2. Bartholin gland cyst

Obstruction of the Bartholin gland duct may lead to unilateral subcutaneous induration of the vulva, which is initially painless and may cause swelling and pain in the event of secondary infection. Medical treatment is required to eliminate the abscess and, if necessary, perform Bartholin's adenostomy or cystectomy.

3. Vulvar boils and swelling

Staphylococcus aureus infection may cause local redness, swelling and induration, and gradually form pus plugs. Symptoms include throbbing pain and fever. It is necessary to avoid squeezing, and the doctor may prescribe drugs such as Ichthyostatin ointment or cefaclor dispersible tablets.

4. Sebaceous cyst

The sebaceous gland ducts are blocked to form cystic induration, and there may be blackheads on the surface, which may suppurate during secondary infection. Smaller cysts can be observed, but larger ones or signs of infection require surgical removal. Azithromycin tablets may be used to prevent infection after surgery.

5. Vulvar tumors

Tumors such as vulvar squamous cell carcinoma may appear as painless indurations or ulcers and require a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Early detection can be treated with wide local excision, while late-stage disease may require a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin injection.

You need to choose cotton underwear and change it every day, and avoid using irritating lotions to clean the vulva. It is forbidden to scratch or open the induration on your own after it appears, and observe whether it is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, ulcers, or swollen lymph nodes. It is recommended to record changes in the size of the induration and accompanying symptoms, and bring past examination data with you when seeking medical treatment. Hygienic care needs to be strengthened during the menstrual period and sexual life should be suspended during treatment. Pay attention to supplementing your diet with high-quality protein and vitamins, and avoid spicy and irritating foods that aggravate the inflammatory response.