I know we all want our coochie skin to look like the Fenty model’s face. But let’s face it, not everyone’s vagina has close to perfect skin. I am sure that every other woman reading this knows what I am talking about – pimples on your vagina. Let me rephrase – ordinarily normal pimples. So, what causes these? 

For those in the back, pimples are small red growths that appear on the surface of the skin, which can also occur on your genitals. So, about the vagina pimples; what could be the cause? They are usually red and grow right on the surface of the skin. The causes are usually because of acne, which is caused by skin pores becoming clogged with either bacteria or other substances. Please note that these pimples can either form on the outside skin of your vagina, or on the external tissue of the vulva or labia. As such, when substances touch the vulva, you may get what is called contact dermatitis. 

This is a type of eczema that is caused by substances like lubricants, washing one’s vagina with anything besides water, or when you use a sanitary item that is either scented and/or used for too long. 

So, what are the symptoms of these pimples? The main symptom is a red bump, which may be small and white at the tip because it’s full of pus. When you touch it, it will feel very tender. 

Secondly, folliculitis is also a big cause. This is when your pubic hair follicles become inflamed and/or infected due to ingrown hair, for instance. Razor burn and shaving are also big contributors to folliculitis. Sometimes, this can also be caused by using unclean water to bathe or swim in. 

When there is really not much one can do to prevent these, there are ways to manage it, should they be something that one is prone to. In order to minimise the risk, one should avoid tight-fitting clothes or underwear. 

If possible, wear underwear that is made of cotton. One should also change sweaty clothes more often, and avoid washing your vagina with soap. And most importantly, do not wear sanitary items for too long without changing them. 

Should you find yourself getting pimples regularly that are either large or painful, please see your doctor. Please note that these pimples could also be a result of a sexually-transmitted infection. So, before you rule out that they are normal pimples, if you are too worried, see your doctor.  

NB: This is merely based on research and experience. I am not a medical doctor. As such, always consult your doctor for first-hand advice. 

* Frieda Mukufa’s lifestyle section concentrates on women-related issues and parenting every Friday in the New Era newspaper. She also specialises in editing research proposals, proofreading as well as content creation.

- etuholefrieda@gmail.com