14. What bumps you need to worry about
Most of us regularly examine our breasts for lumps or bumps. It’s worth adding a monthly examination of the genitals with a hand-held mirror. This will allow you to see any lumps or bumps or changes that might need further examination.
Most bumps will tend to be ingrown hairs, herpes or warts. If the bump is a raised, red hard one, the odds are that it may be an ingrown hair. Herpes presents as a blister with a red base and a clear top. A wart will be flesh-colored and a little floppy. The location of the bump also offers a clue. If it is found inside the labia where hair does not grow, it’s likely to be an STD.
Herpes is not particularly dangerous but it may come back in the same area many times and some people have frequent outbreaks. It is contagious and it can be a problem in pregnancy. You should see a doctor for medication that can help to prevent or treat outbreaks. Genital warts may go away, increase in number or stay the same. They are contagious and are caused by the genital human papilloma virus that has been linked to cervical cancer. This virus is the most common transmitted infection and there is now a vaccine available.
If you have been in the love making from an early age, have many partners and do not use a condom, you have a much greater risk of developing a transmitted infection. If you do not engage in a risky behavior, the bumps you find in the genital area are more likely to be harmless cysts or ingrown hairs.