Lumps, Bumps & Cuts / Question
Published: May 13, 2009
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a little worried about a lump around my genitals. I am a 15 year old female and I have been with my boyfriend now for 11 months. We are sexually active and have not performed any kind of sex with anyone else. I have had a scar on the side or my genitals in the crease between the legs; it has been there for about 2 years. I got it by cutting myself accidently when I was shaving. I do shave there still, and I’ve notice that the scar is now inflamed and is purple and hard. My hair has just started growing back so could it be an ingrown hair? Or should I get tested for a STI? Please answer me as soon as possible. Thank you.
Signed: Lump Around My Genitals – Ingrown Hair
Dear Lump Around My Genitals – Ingrown Hair,
It could be that what you are describing is an ingrown hair. Ingrown hairs are actually hair follicles that have become blocked by skin or dirt and have formed an abscess (a localized collection of pus that generally develops in response to infection), or a type of infection/irritation.
Eventually the body will repair this problem. In your case, however, there is a history of injury to the area and based on your description, it is infected and painful. You should consult your doctor to more thoroughly evaluate and treat this problem.
Also, although what you have described sounds like an ingrown hair, TeenHealthFX cannot definitely rule out an STD. If you are questioning whether or not you need testing, you should see your doctor to be evaluated and to discuss safe sex practices. Remember, the only person that you can be sure of when it comes to sex is yourself, so you should always protect yourself and practice safer sex.
If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call Girl Street--A Young Women’s Health Program at Overlook Hospital at (908) 522-2555 or the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971-6475 for an appointment. Outside this area contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
While 93% of teenage women report that their first intercourse was voluntary, one-quarter of these young women report that it was unwanted. 
