Should I be worried about moles in intimate area? (photos)

Question

Age 39. Never seen these before, always check down there. They are on the labie majora (outer lips) theres a couple of clear dark tiny moles and more looking like they are forming. Its really worrying me, I have a doctors app for monday but any advise appreciated.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

It's understandable to be concerned about new or changing moles, especially in sensitive areas. While many moles are benign, there are some characteristics to watch for that could indicate a need for further evaluation. Here are a few points to consider:

1. **ABCDEs of Melanoma**: Evaluate the moles using these criteria:
   - **A**symmetry: One half of the mole doesn't match the other.
   - **B**order: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
   - **C**olor: The color isn't uniform and may include shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.
   - **D**iameter: The mole is larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can be smaller.
   - **E**volving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

2. **Location and Symptoms**: Since the moles are in a sensitive area (labia majora), any associated symptoms such as itching, pain, bleeding, or ulceration should be noted and discussed with a healthcare provider.

3. **Personal and Family History**: Consider if there is a personal or family history of skin cancer or atypical moles.

4. **Regular Monitoring**: Since you have noticed new moles forming, it's important to monitor them for any changes over time.

Given the new appearance of these moles and your age, it would be prudent to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider, preferably a dermatologist. They can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, biopsy any suspicious lesions to rule out malignancy.

In summary, while not all new moles are cause for alarm, it's important to have them evaluated by a professional to ensure they are benign, especially when they appear in sensitive areas and you have noticed multiple new formations.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Mole removal begins with a comprehensive examination and consultation to determine the likelihood of a mole being worrisome. Excisional and incisional biopsies are reserved for suspicious moles. But it’s good news that most moles are not problematic and are only cosmetic, thus leading to the option of scarless or non-surgical mole removal with lasers and RF and plasma. Our office specializes in non-surgical mole removal.

Best,
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself 100 Surgeon

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