Back to Question & Answers

I had unprotected sex in October and got a UTI a week later. Everything was fine after taking medication. It’s January and I noticed a bump in my pubic area. I’m worried it may be an STD. There is only one bump and it’s on my outer labia.

Thanks for your question. Having a bump on your genitals can be concerning. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) typically do not cause bumps on the genital area and can have various causes, including skin irritation, ingrown hairs, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you are experiencing symptoms such as bumps or sores on the genital area, it’s a good idea to have it assessed by a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can be evaluated for things like herpes, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea and HPV – and sometimes swabs will be taken from the bump or lesion. It’s important to rule out STIs first.

STIs are common and can be treated with proper medical care. If you are diagnosed with an STI, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s treatment recommendations and to inform your sexual partner(s) so that they can be tested and treated as well. Meanwhile, it is also important to take steps to prevent the spread of STIs, such as using condoms correctly and consistently and testing regularly.