Is it Normal to Get Pimples Near the Vagina?

Is it normal to get pimples near your vagina? Not in it, but around where I shave?
– Kelsea*

When someone shaves their pubic hair, it's not uncommon to get ingrown hairs. These pesky ingrown hairs can then cause pimples. The pimples themselves are annoying, but not necessarily a health problem.

But if a pimple seems to be getting redder, bigger, more tender, or warm, it could be a sign of infection, and you should see a health care provider.

To help prevent ingrown hairs, avoid dry shaving, don’t use a dull razor, always use shaving gel or cream, and shave in the direction your hair grows rather than against it.

Not every bump is a pimple or an ingrown hair, though. Bumps that are red and tender or open, for example, might be herpes sores. These can go away after a few days or stay longer. They might return from time to time, or never again. Herpes is a viral infection that spreads through sex.

If you’re concerned, have your health care provider check out these bumps.

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.