VP bumps are common for those assigned female at birth.
Having VP is not harmful and does not pose any health risks.
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Why is it called vestibular papillomatosis?
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The term vestibular papillomatosis derives from the location and appearance of VP.
The vulvar vestibule is the skin that the labia minora (small folds surrounding the vagina) covers.
Other terms for VP are vaginal papules, vulvar vestibulitis bumps, or labia bumps.
Who Gets Vestibular Papillomatosis (VP) Labia Bumps?
Vestibular papillomatosis (VP) is a common condition that can occur in any person assigned female at birth.
These vulvar bumps are a natural and healthy variation of the external female anatomy.
VP typically appears during your teen years or in early adulthood.
VP bumps are benign (harmless) and do not require medical attention.
They are typically about 12 millimeters (mm) but can grow larger.
The vulvar vestibule is the smooth area around the vaginal opening that the labia minora covers.
Texture
VP bumps have a smooth and soft texture and form symmetrically.
Typically, they are not itchy, irritating, or painful.
However, in very rare cases, they can be.
Color
VP is characterized by flesh-colored, light pink, or white bumps.
Their coloring makes their appearance subtle.
They do not cause redness or skin discoloration.
Vestibular Papillomatosis vs.
The following helps distinguish VP from these other conditions.
They are a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Genital Herpes
The herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes the STIgenital herpes.
Herpes appears as a cluster of fluid-filled blisters that may itch or hurt, break open, and scab.
In contrast, VP does not cause blisters.
Genital Pimples
Genital pimplesare inflamed, red, raised bumps that may contain pus.
Clogged pores or ingrown hairs cause them, and they typically occur one or two at a time.
Like VP, Fordyce spots are a normal, harmless variation of the skin.
One difference from VP is that Fordyce spots might be slightly yellowish.
Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar canceris rare but can cause lumps or bumps in the genital area.
Additional symptoms might include discomfort, itching, bleeding, skin thickness, or color changes.
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosumis a viral skin infection that causes tiny, round, and raised bumps.
Molluscum contagiosum can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, contaminated objects, or sexual contact.
Cysts
Several types of cysts can occur on the vulva.
you could distinguish them from VP because they are translucent and contain a clear liquid.
They occur when the Bartholin’s gland in the vulva region gets blocked or swollen.
Are VP Bumps Permanent?
VP bumps are a permanent variation in the skin of the vulva.
Attempts to get rid of them are unnecessary because they pose no health risks.
Prompt consultation will provide peace of mind that you have an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Unlike infections or harmful conditions, VP does not require removal or treatment.
