Doctors Note Logo

Published on: 7/14/2026

What should I do if I find a lump between my vagina and anus?

A lump between the vagina and anus (the perineum) can have several possible causes, ranging from minor to more serious. Common causes include:

  • Cysts (such as Bartholin's or sebaceous cysts)
  • Abscesses from infected glands or hair follicles
  • Hemorrhoids or anal skin tags
  • Ingrown hairs or folliculitis
  • Warts from HPV infection
  • Rarely, tumors requiring further evaluation

While some lumps resolve on their own, others may require medical treatment such as drainage, antibiotics, or removal. You should see a doctor promptly if the lump is painful, growing, changing in color or texture, bleeding, or accompanied by fever.

Because the causes vary widely — and the right next step depends on what's actually causing your symptoms — guessing can lead to unnecessary worry or delayed care. Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you narrow down likely causes based on your specific symptoms and guide you toward the appropriate level of care, whether that's home monitoring or seeing a specialist soon.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

answer background

Explanation

If you find a lump in the area between your vagina and anus, the first step is to take note of any other symptoms or changes. Sometimes, lumps in this region can be due to a benign cause, such as a cyst or a small growth that may not be harmful.

However, other times, a lump may be linked to conditions like infections, tissue changes, or even prolapse where organs are moving from their normal positions. In some cases, especially when a lump is unusual or persistent, it needs a medical evaluation to rule out any serious problems.

To better understand your symptoms and determine the urgency of your situation, you can start by taking a free symptom checker test that helps identify possible causes. It is also a good idea to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider who can examine the area and possibly order tests like an ultrasound or biopsy if needed. Monitoring whether the lump becomes painful, grows in size, or if you develop additional symptoms like unusual discharge or bleeding is also important. By getting a medical opinion, you can receive the right treatment or simply get reassurance if the lump is harmless.

(References)

  • Seppings SC, Samir H, Abdelrahman I. An unusual vaginal lump. BMJ Case Rep. 2017 Feb 13;2017:bcr2016218027. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2016-218027. PMID: 28193643; PMCID: PMC5318585.

  • Wallace S, Gurland B. Approaching Combined Rectal and Vaginal Prolapse. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2022 Jan 17;34(5):302-310. doi: 10.1055/s-0041-1726351. PMID: 35069022; PMCID: PMC8763579.

  • Orkin BA, Smith LE. Perineal manifestations of HIV infection. Dis Colon Rectum. 1992 Apr;35(4):310-4. doi: 10.1007/BF02048106. PMID: 1582350.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.