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What Causes Vaginal Blisters?

Amanda R. Bell
Amanda R. Bell

There are many causes of vaginal blisters, most of which can be avoided with proper nutrition, practicing safe sex, and good hygiene. The most common causes of vaginal blisters are infections and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). They can also be caused by poor nutrition, stress, clothing, and some recreational activities.

Blisters can develop on the vagina due to a bacterial or fungal infection. These infections can develop from wearing bathing suits or synthetic undergarments. The warm, moist environment that these items form can create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, which can cause vaginal blisters to form. Using pools or hot tubs that do not have the proper ratio of chemicals can also cause infections, and therefore blisters, to emerge.

Vaginal blisters can be caused by wearing wet bikini bottoms for too long or bathing in chemically inbalanced hot tubs.
Vaginal blisters can be caused by wearing wet bikini bottoms for too long or bathing in chemically inbalanced hot tubs.

STDs are one of the leading causes of vaginal blisters, especially genital herpes. This disorder causes groupings of blisters to form on and around the vagina; they are usually very painful and often burst and crust over. Herpes can be prevented by practicing safe sex, although it is not curable once it is contracted. Some medicines can be taken to reduce the amount of vaginal blisters and limit the possibility of transmission to a sexual partner.

The friction from horseback riding and wearing jeans without underwear can cause vaginal blisters.
The friction from horseback riding and wearing jeans without underwear can cause vaginal blisters.

Poor nutrition and tension can also cause vaginal blisters. When the body lacks the nutrients it needs or is creating large amounts of the hormones that go with stress, it can respond in strange ways; this may include developing blisters on the vagina. When a vaginal blister is caused by lack of nutrients or stress, it is usually just a single blister that is only painful when touched.

Sexually transmitted diseases are a major cause of vaginal blisters.
Sexually transmitted diseases are a major cause of vaginal blisters.

Certain types of underwear can also cause blisters on the vagina; tight jeans or pants especially when worn without undergarments can do the same. While many women love lacy panties, it is important to make sure that the crotch area is made of a breathable fabric such as cotton. Synthetic undergarments can trap moisture against the vagina, causing sores, or irritate the sensitive skin, also causing blisters. The same is true for tight pants. The friction caused by walking in tight pants can irritate the skin, resulting in the formation of blisters, much like the blisters that form on the back of the heels.

Certain components of soap may cause vaginal blisters.
Certain components of soap may cause vaginal blisters.

Some activities, especially horseback riding and bike riding, can also cause this condition. Much like the problem with clothing, these hobbies can create a great deal of friction in the vaginal area. To prevent blisters from developing when doing these activities, wear breathable clothing and items that are thick enough to reduce some of the chafing.

Using safe sex practices can help reduce an individual's chances of contracting vaginal blisters.
Using safe sex practices can help reduce an individual's chances of contracting vaginal blisters.

By wearing breathable clothing, taking care of themselves, and limiting the chances for infection, women can reduce their chances of developing blisters in this sensitive area. If they do develop, schedule an exam with a doctor to find out about the underlying cause of the blisters or sores. This can allow for the earliest and best treatment of the condition.

Discussion Comments

anon947496

I had sex last night without a condom, and wore the same underwear, since I did not go home. I had a shower this morning and everything was fine, but I noticed halfway through the day that my underwear was chafing me. When I got home about three, I noticed what appeared to be a popped blister (the skin was still attached) about the size of the end of an eraser. I thoroughly examined myself and I did not see any other sores or blisters anywhere. Also it is not a perfect circle, and it is in the area where my underwear was chafing me on the outer flap of my vagina. I plan on getting myself checked but would appreciate some input.

anon311558

I'm a 15 year old girl and two days ago I woke up with a fever. On that evening I was feeling tired, so I crossed my legs and started to lean back. My legs were crossed tightly due to my position but I didn't bother to move because I was so tired. After a few minutes, I stood up and my genital area hurt like hell. It was hard to walk with my legs rubbing one another.

So I got home and checked myself. It looked bad. There were like a few bumps that were transparent and a bit reddish looking near my vaginal opening which is swollen.

It hurts when I pee (not inside) because it's like peeing on a wound and it is so, so very painful even now. I surfed the net and I couldn't find a single match to what this is. I'm not seeing anyone and I've never had sex. Does anyone know what this is or how long will it stay? Please help.

anon310272

Do ulcers/blisters have to be checked by doctor? is is 100 percent completely necessary? Also, can they have a white color about them?

Valencia

@Windchime - I do understand your feelings about ignorant people, but often they are reacting to old wives tales and half formed pieces of information. Most folk are equally able to take in more reliable facts just as well, so don't give up on spreading the word.

Having said that, there are some basic things everyone needs to think about. Women with vaginal blisters of any kind shouldn't share towels for instance.

Having had a genital herpes scare, (which thankfully was a false alarm, never thought I'd be grateful for a vaginal boil), I learned a lot about this topic. Before that I was as misinformed and confused about this topic as many others.

Windchime

Thanks for writing such a down to earth explanation of this subject. I know several people with genital herpes, and others who have had one off issues with vaginal blisters caused by other things.

Even though it's natural to feel freaked out by this kind of symptom, straightforward factual information helps you to understand what may be going on.

It is also invaluable in the fight against those who mistakenly think you can 'catch' things from people without having intimate contact. That kind of attitude hurts people beyond belief.

angelBraids

Considering the various ways genital sores can develop it's something that is likely to affect an awful lot of women in their lifetime. Please don't let the sensitive nature of vaginal sores or blisters delay medical treatment.

If you feel awkward see-ing your regular doctor have a look online for details of a well woman or STD clinic.

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    • Vaginal blisters can be caused by wearing wet bikini bottoms for too long or bathing in chemically inbalanced hot tubs.
      By: Rido
      Vaginal blisters can be caused by wearing wet bikini bottoms for too long or bathing in chemically inbalanced hot tubs.
    • The friction from horseback riding and wearing jeans without underwear can cause vaginal blisters.
      By: Wildcat
      The friction from horseback riding and wearing jeans without underwear can cause vaginal blisters.
    • Sexually transmitted diseases are a major cause of vaginal blisters.
      By: Vasiliy Koval
      Sexually transmitted diseases are a major cause of vaginal blisters.
    • Certain components of soap may cause vaginal blisters.
      By: Bombaert Patrick
      Certain components of soap may cause vaginal blisters.
    • Using safe sex practices can help reduce an individual's chances of contracting vaginal blisters.
      By: Igor Mojzes
      Using safe sex practices can help reduce an individual's chances of contracting vaginal blisters.
    • Certain types of underwear can actually cause vaginal blisters.
      By: Ruslan Kudrin
      Certain types of underwear can actually cause vaginal blisters.