{"id":43547,"date":"2025-06-24T10:53:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-24T10:53:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.humnutrition.com\/blog\/?p=43547"},"modified":"2025-06-17T20:54:08","modified_gmt":"2025-06-17T20:54:08","slug":"vaginal-ulcer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.humnutrition.com\/blog\/vaginal-ulcer\/","title":{"rendered":"The Rundown on Vaginal Ulcers: What They Are, How Do You Get Them, and How Can You Treat Them"},"content":{"rendered":"

Let’s face it\u2014talking about vaginal health can be a difficult topic to discuss with anyone, even a medical professional. But these discussions can be critical to your health, especially when it comes to issues like a vaginal ulcer. While it may not come up in everyday conversation, the condition is more common than you might think\u2014and they can be painful, uncomfortable, and downright scary if you don’t know what’s going on.<\/p>\n\n\n

Vaginal ulcers can result from a variety of causes, from sexually transmitted infections (STI) to everyday irritants,<\/a> and knowing the signs can help you get the proper treatment sooner. Whether you’re feeling discomfort and unsure what’s causing it or simply want to be informed, here’s everything you need to know about vaginal ulcers\u2014what they are, how they occur, and when to seek treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n

What is a Vaginal Ulcer?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Vaginal ulcers are open sores that form on the vulva, which is the external part of the female genitalia. These sores can vary in size and appearance, but they’re usually painful and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling, discharge<\/a>, and even fever. Because the area is sensitive, ulcers can also cause discomfort during urination and other daily activities.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n

How Do You Get a Vaginal Ulcer?<\/h2>\n\n\n

There are several reasons why vaginal ulcers might appear, and the cause often determines the course of treatment. The most common causes include:
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1. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)<\/h3>\n\n\n

This is the leading cause of vaginal ulcers. Genital herpes, syphilis, and chancroid are three STIs commonly linked to ulcer development. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)<\/a>, genital herpes is the most widespread culprit<\/a>, affecting around 12% of Americans under the age of 50.
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2. Non-STD Infections<\/h3>\n\n\n

Not all infections that cause ulcers are sexually transmitted. Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections\u2014such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis\u2014can also lead to ulceration if left untreated or if the area becomes irritated.
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3. Autoimmune Conditions<\/h3>\n\n\n

Certain autoimmune disorders can also manifest with vaginal ulcers. These include Behcet’s disease and Crohn’s disease, both of which can cause inflammation<\/a> throughout the body, including the genital area.
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4. Physical Irritations<\/h3>\n\n\n

Everyday activities or products can sometimes trigger ulcers. These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n