I Have a Painful Bump Down There. Should I Worry?

Maybe you’ve noticed a painful bump down there, in or around your vagina. It’s perfectly normal to be a little bit worried or concerned. But try not to panic or jump to the worst possible conclusion. There are a lot of causes for painful bumps or sores on a woman’s genitals. And most of the causes are not contagious, life-threatening or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

So what are the most common causes of painful bumps in the vaginal area?

Cysts. Cysts can happen anywhere on the body where fluid, air, or anything else gets trapped inside skin tissue. If these cysts begin to hurt, the skin may have gotten an infection. Cysts are usually easily treated by your doctor.

In-grown hair. If you ever shave or wax your bikini area, you may have developed an in-grown hair or blocked hair follicle. These can become red and itchy and painful.

Clogged sweat glands. You have sweat glands all over our body, and any of them can become clogged. This is true of the sweat glands in and around the genitals.

Skin tags. Irregular fleshy growths can appear in the vaginal area. These growths are harmless.

If you have had sex, your painful bump could be a symptom of an STD. Human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes, syphilis, and molluscum contagiosum are all sexually transmitted infections that can cause bumps on the vaginal area. If you have sex outside of a mutually monogamous relationship (you both only ever have sex with each other), you are at risk for an STD. Your doctor can determine if your bump is the result of an STD and direct you to the proper treatment.

Finally, in rare instances, cancer can also cause bumps or lumps in the vaginal area. But this is the least likely possible explanation. Vaginal cancers are very rare and almost always have other symptoms besides painful bumps.

No matter what you think the bump could be, you should see your doctor. Most likely, your bump will be no big deal and a visit with the doctor will put your mind at ease. And if you do need some sort of treatment, the doctor can talk you through your options.

If you are concerned about a painful bump or any other abnormal symptom, we are here to listen and refer you to someone who can help. If you have had sex and are worried about STDs, we can offer STD testing at no cost to you. Call us today to set up an appointment. We care about you and want to help you be your healthiest.

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My Friends Are Telling Me to Abort, But I'm Not Ready

June 4, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.

Hiding My Pregnancy: Would Abortion Be an Option?

May 21, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can flip your world upside down, and the urge to keep it under wraps might hit hard. Maybe you’re thinking abortion could erase the situation quietly.

What to Do When Friends and Family Are Pressuring You into an Abortion Decision

April 2, 2025

What do you do when those closest to you start pushing you toward a decision that doesn’t feel right? Pressure from family or friends to choose abortion can leave you feeling stuck, unheard, and unsure of what to do next. How can you hold firm in your decision while dealing with well-meaning but overwhelming advice? Here’s what you can do to navigate this difficult situation with strength and resilience. Mental Health and Pressure Your decision should be your own—one that isn’t influenced by guilt or outside expectations. Studies show that women who feel pressured into abortion are more likely to experience guilt, anxiety, depression, and other negative mental health outcomes. Protecting your mental and emotional health starts with making a choice that aligns with what you truly want. Ways to Handle the Pressure Since you understand why this decision needs to be yours, here are some practical steps to help you handle outside pressure. Give Yourself Time You don’t have to decide right away. Take a moment, think through your feelings, and give yourself the gift to reflect without feeling rushed. You're less likely to regret a decision made on your terms. Learn About All Your Options Abortion isn’t your only choice. Parenting and adoption are also possibilities, each with its own forms of support and resources. Learning more about these options can help you make an informed decision you feel at peace with. Set Boundaries It can be tough to stand your ground when others have strong opinions about your decision. Clearly expressing your thoughts by setting boundaries can help you avoid unwanted pressure. Letting others know you need time and space to think can help shift the conversation away from their influence and back to what’s best for you. Advice from a Third Party Getting a different perspective on your situation can be helpful when seeking advice from someone outside your inner circle. This could be a professional counselor, an online support group, or a caring team member at Collage . You deserve people in your life who want to understand you without judgment. You Are Not Alone Even if those around you don’t fully understand, there are people who do. A supportive environment can make all the difference as you navigate this decision. Collage is here to walk with you during this time. We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, pregnancy options information, and more at no cost so you can get informed and have the support you need to move forward with certainty. Schedule a confidential appointment today.