Experiencing Vaginal Blisters?

Overview of Vaginal Blisters

When vaginal blisters appear, many people associate them with STDs. This association is correct and a step in the right direction towards diagnosis. Vaginal blisters are a very common symptom of STD, but it is important to know which STDs cause vaginal blisters and which don’t. STDs are the leading cause of vaginal blisters, but keep in mind vaginal blisters vary in appearance by individual and by disease. Only STD testing can determine the cause of vaginal blisters or sores.

Possible Causes of Vaginal Blisters

Sexually transmitted diseases often cause vaginal blisters. Certain STDs, like gonorrhea and chlamydia, do not cause sores or lesions. The following STDs commonly cause sores or blisters:

• Genital herpes is a very common STD that causes red, painful blisters that break open and crust over. They can appear singularly or in groups on the vaginal area, thighs, or anus.
• Syphilis often causes a single, painless sore. This sore is usually flat, raised, and resembles a bug bite. This sore will heal with or without treatment, but only treatment can cure syphilis.
• Genital warts causes warts that may be mistaken for blisters. These warts are often painless and range from white, flesh-colored, or pink. Sometimes they appear in cauliflower-like clusters.

Many people confuse gonorrhea and chlamydia as causes for vaginal blisters. Symptoms of gonorrhea and chlamydia include unusual discharge, pain or burning during urination, and pain during sex.

Diagnosing Vaginal Blisters

Since vaginal blisters are often a symptom of STDs, STD testing is the best way to diagnose these sores or lesions. Syphilis and genital herpes can be diagnosed through a simple blood test. Genital warts can only be diagnosed through a visual diagnosis. Keep in mind, STDs causing genital sores and blisters can be passed through sex play or sex when condoms are used. Vaginal blisters are spread from skin-to-skin contact and condoms don’t cover everything below the belt.

Also, even though vaginal blisters aren’t caused by bacterial STDs, it is recommended to test for gonorrhea and chlamydia if you have possibly been exposed to any STDs.

Treating Vaginal Blisters

Treatment of vaginal blisters depends on the diagnosis. Syphilis is cured with a shot of penicillin. Genital warts can be surgically removed or frozen off by a doctor. Genital herpes is treated through antiviral medications like Valtrex. Mediation can less the severity and frequency of herpes outbreaks.

However, regardless of what is causing vaginal blisters, be sure to abstain from sex whenever blisters or sores are present. Also, use condoms to reduce the risk of transmitting STDs to others.