Skin tags are common, benign skin growths that appear as small, soft pieces of hanging skin, often with a stalk-like attachment.
Skin Tags in the Vaginal Area
Skin tags can appear close to the vagina, including on the labia and surrounding groin area. While less common directly inside the vaginal canal, they are frequently found on the vulva, inner thighs, and near the anus. This is linked to factors similar to those causing skin tags elsewhere.
Friction is a primary contributor to skin tag development, as they commonly form where skin rubs against skin or clothing. In the vaginal area, this can result from contact between skin folds, tight clothing, or physical activities. Hormonal changes, like those during pregnancy, can also increase development due to new skin cell growth and weight fluctuations. Genetic predisposition also plays a role; individuals with family members who have skin tags may be more prone to them.
Distinguishing Skin Tags from Other Growths
Skin tags typically appear as soft, flesh-colored, or slightly darker growths that are attached to the skin by a small, thin stalk, known as a peduncle. They are often small, ranging from 1 to 5 millimeters, but can occasionally grow larger. Their surface can be smooth or slightly irregular, and they are usually loose and movable.
It is important to differentiate skin tags from other growths that may appear in the vaginal area. Genital warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can resemble skin tags but often have a rough, bumpy, or “cauliflower-like” texture. Unlike skin tags, genital warts can be flat or slightly raised, may appear in clusters, and are highly contagious. Moles, which are collections of pigment-producing cells, are typically flat or slightly raised and are often tan, brown, or black, though some can be flesh-colored. Moles usually have a wider base than skin tags and can vary in shape and size, with some having hair growing from them.
Ingrown hairs can also cause bumps in the vaginal area, often appearing as red, inflamed, and sometimes painful lesions associated with hair removal. These bumps may contain pus and can be itchy, but a hair trapped under the skin is usually visible. Boils are painful, red, swollen lumps that form around hair follicles due to bacterial infection, often filling with pus and eventually developing a yellowish head. Unlike skin tags, boils are typically tender to the touch and can cause fever in severe cases.
Sebaceous cysts are closed sacs located beneath the skin, filled with a thick, oily substance, and can appear as movable lumps. While usually painless, they can become infected, leading to redness and discomfort, similar to a boil if ruptured. Skin tags, by contrast, are loose pieces of skin on the surface, not filled with fluid or pus, and do not typically become painful unless irritated.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Seeking medical evaluation for any new or changing growth near the vagina is advisable for an accurate diagnosis. A healthcare provider can differentiate between a skin tag and other conditions that may require different management.
Certain signs warrant a doctor’s visit for a growth. These include changes in size, color, or shape, bleeding, pain or tenderness, itching, or rapid growth. The appearance of multiple new growths can also be a reason for concern. A healthcare provider can often diagnose skin tags through a visual examination, but sometimes a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions.
If a skin tag causes discomfort, irritation from clothing, or cosmetic concerns, removal options are available.
Common, safe methods performed by medical professionals include:
Snipping with a scalpel or surgical scissors.
Freezing with liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy).
Burning with heat (cauterization or electrocautery).
Ligation, where a thread is tied around the base to cut off blood supply, for tags with a distinct stalk.
It is not recommended to attempt at-home removal due to risks of infection, scarring, or incomplete removal. Removal is typically for cosmetic reasons or to alleviate irritation rather than medical necessity.