Blisters, lumps and sores

What causes them?

Genital, blisters, lumps and sores can be caused by many things such as infection, STI, trauma or just normal sexual activity.

Tissue damage (trauma) caused by masturbation or sex can occur if not enough water based lubrication is used or you are not ready or have not agreed to have sex, as in the case of rape. These sores heal quickly, usually within a couple of days but you should see your doctor, family planning or sexual health clinic if concerned or if you feel as if you have been forced to have sex against your will.

Other causes of genital blisters, lumps or sores include:

• Genital Herpes (this is the most common sexually transmitted cause of genital sores/ulcers in Australia)
• Syphilis
• Genital warts
• Scabies.

Other possible causes include:

• cysts of the skin
• reactions to medications
• non-infectious skin diseases

Any blisters or open sores on the genitals increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

What to do

For advice, see your local doctor, family planning clinic or sexual health clinic.

More info

• Find out more about sexually transmitted infections