Skin tags can appear on the labia, the folds of skin forming part of the external female genitalia. These growths are typically harmless and non-cancerous. While common, any new or changing growth should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to confirm its nature.
Understanding Skin Tags on the Labia
Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons or fibroepithelial polyps, are small, soft, benign growths of skin tissue. They often appear flesh-colored or slightly darker, sometimes resembling a small balloon attached by a slender stalk. On the labia, these growths can develop on the labia majora (outer lips), labia minora (inner lips), or the perineum, the area between the vagina and anus. Skin tags consist of loose collagen fibers and blood vessels. They are smooth to the touch, typically ranging from 1 to 5 millimeters, though they can occasionally grow larger.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
The precise reason skin tags form is not fully understood, but several contributing factors are recognized. Friction plays a significant role, as skin rubbing against skin or clothing, such as underwear, can encourage their development.
Hormonal changes also contribute, commonly observed during pregnancy due to shifts that affect skin elasticity or increased skin-to-skin contact from weight changes. Genetics can also be a factor, with a family history increasing predisposition. Conditions like obesity and insulin resistance are associated with a higher risk.
Distinguishing From Other Lumps and Bumps
Differentiating a skin tag from other growths on the labia is important, as various bumps can appear in this region. Skin tags are typically soft, smooth, and often have a distinct stalk. In contrast, genital warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), often have a rough or bumpy, cauliflower-like texture and may appear in clusters. Unlike skin tags, genital warts are contagious and can cause itching, irritation, or burning.
Moles are another type of growth, but they are usually pigmented, ranging from light brown to black, and generally do not hang off the skin on a stalk. Ingrown hairs, which can occur after hair removal, typically appear as red, inflamed, and sometimes painful bumps. Sebaceous cysts or epidermal inclusion cysts are firm, round lumps that form under the skin. These cysts can become painful if infected. Bartholin cysts, which form near the vaginal opening when glands become blocked, can also manifest as lumps and may cause pain or swelling if infected.
Management and When to Consult a Doctor
Skin tags on the labia are generally harmless and often do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort, irritation, or cosmetic concern. If removal is desired, professional methods include cryotherapy (freezing), excision (surgical removal), cauterization (burning), and ligation (tying off blood supply).
Attempting to remove skin tags at home is strongly discouraged due to risks of infection, bleeding, scarring, and incomplete removal, especially in this sensitive area. A healthcare provider should always be consulted for any new growth, or if an existing growth changes in size, shape, or color, becomes painful, itchy, or bleeds. This ensures proper identification and rules out other conditions.