1. I felt a lump inside my vagina. What could it be?
Multiple conditions can cause lumps in the vagina or vulva.
A common type is pustular cysts formed by blocked sebaceous glands. No treatment is needed if there is no discomfort; drainage can be performed by a doctor if soreness occurs.
Bartholin’s gland cysts develop when the gland duct gets blocked. They may grow as large as a peach and are prone to infection, usually requiring incision, drainage and antibiotic anti-inflammatory therapy.
Inclusion cysts mostly appear postpartum. During episiotomy, small pieces of skin get sewn into the wound and keep generating cells to form cysts, which can be removed via a minor operation.
Another possibility is genital warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts may grow singly or in clusters, each roughly the size of a pencil tip. Patients usually feel no pain but experience itchiness, discomfort or a burning sensation. Treatments include surgery, laser ablation, cryotherapy and topical medication, yet multiple sessions are required and recurrence is possible after recovery.
Cancerous tumors of the vagina and vulva are rare, but incidence among women under 40 is rising. Early obvious signs include discoloration of vaginal and vulvar skin, scaly patches accompanied by itching.
2. Tiny white bumps often appear on my nipples. What are they?
Small white bumps on the areola are a completely normal physiological structure called Montgomery’s glands. They secrete lubricant to soften nipples and ease breastfeeding. These glands may occasionally become clogged or swollen, but they resolve on their own without antibiotics or surgery.
3. A book says Pap smears can be done every three years if the previous result is normal. Is this schedule appropriate and reliable?
Surveys indicate a three-year interval for Pap tests is relatively safe, as cervical cancer develops slowly with a long latent period. However, some physicians recommend annual screening to detect other gynecological disorders, while other experts advise yearly routine exams for three consecutive years for eligible women before extending the interval.
To ensure accurate test results, ask your doctor several questions: whether they have communicated with lab technicians and obtained all diagnostic data; what tool is used to collect cervical cells (cotton swab, cytobrush or spatula). Studies prove cytobrushes collect better samples than cotton swabs, and extended-tip spatulas can reach deeper cervical tissue. Confirm that samples are taken from both the outer and inner cervix for comprehensive lesion detection.
4. I have persistent anal itching lately. What is the cause?
Anal pruritus can stem from numerous factors: tight underwear, poor hygiene, skin disorders, or allergies to hemorrhoid ointment, certain foods (spices, citrus fruits, beer, coffee, cola) and antibiotics (especially tetracycline). It may occasionally act as an early sign of diabetes.
To relieve symptoms, wipe the itchy area with sterile swabs and keep it dry. Wear loose-fitting clothes and stop consuming allergenic foods and medications. Consult a doctor if discomfort persists.
5. I was diagnosed with genital herpes recently, but my husband shows no symptoms. How could I get infected?
Your husband is very likely infected without obvious clinical manifestations. Recent research finds many people test positive for the virus yet remain asymptomatic. Modern medical treatments can alleviate your discomfort. Your partner should receive relevant testing, and you need immediate medical treatment.
6. I am scheduled for a hysterectomy and worry that my sex life will be negatively affected after surgery.
Such worries are mostly unfounded. Studies show many women enjoy more harmonious sexual life, more frequent and intense orgasms post-hysterectomy, as pre-existing painful symptoms are eliminated by the operation. Though a small proportion of patients encounter sexual difficulties after surgery, the ratio is quite low.
7. I heard laser therapy can improve sexual satisfaction. What does the treatment involve and is it safe?
This procedure has clinical application overseas but is rarely performed domestically. Abroad, doctors recommend vaginal laser plastic surgery to reshape female genital tissue, and patient demand is growing. The surgery trims thick or irregular labia and tightens vaginal muscles loosened by childbirth or aging, theoretically boosting sexual satisfaction. However, sufficient clinical data proving the safety and efficacy of this USD 4,000 procedure are still lacking.
8. My husband has tinea cruris. Can I get infected during intercourse?
The risk of transmission is high, so precautions are necessary. Tinea cruris is a fungal infection causing itchy rashes that thrive in warm, moist skin folds. Men who wear tight underwear are more susceptible.
Advise your husband to switch to loose shorts to keep the groin dry. If he has athlete’s foot, put on socks before trousers. Mild tinea cruris clears up within days with topical antifungals. To avoid passing the infection to you, he should apply antifungal cream before sexual contact.