Vaginal and genital skin tags are harmless but understandably worrying, especially when you’re unsure what the lump might be. At City Dermatology Clinic, our private specialists assess the area with care, confirm the diagnosis and advise on safe removal. We offer discreet, same-day treatment at our London locations, giving you a clear plan and peace of mind.
Genital skin tags are usually painless, soft growths that sit on a small stalk. Most people notice them during washing, shaving or sex, rather than through symptoms.
Common features include small, smooth or slightly folded bumps on the labia, groin or perineum. They often match your natural skin tone and don’t cause itching, burning or discharge.
Some patients experience irritation if the tag rubs against underwear or pads, or catches during exercise or intercourse. Occasional bleeding can happen if the tag is pulled or scratched.
Anything that’s painful, rapidly growing, rough in texture or clustered should be checked promptly, as not all genital lumps are skin tags. A specialist assessment at our London clinic helps confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
Genital skin tags can be removed quickly and safely using simple minor procedures under local anaesthetic. At City Dermatology Clinic, the recommended approach depends on the size, shape and location of the tag, as well as whether a sample needs to be sent for analysis.
The tag is numbed and carefully snipped at the base, followed by gentle cautery to seal blood vessels and smooth the area. This is the most common option and allows a sample to be sent for histology if needed.
A fine heated tip is used to remove the tag and leave a flat, tidy surface. This is suitable for very small or narrow-based tags, particularly on delicate areas of the vulva.
Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze smaller tags, which then dry, darken and fall away as the skin heals. This may be used when excision isn’t required.
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Consultation | A private assessment with one of our clinicians. The area is examined, the diagnosis is confirmed and the most suitable removal method is explained. If anything looks atypical, biopsy may be recommended. |
| Consent & Planning | Your clinician discusses benefits, risks, pricing and aftercare. You can ask questions before agreeing to proceed. A chaperone is available on request. |
| Local Anaesthetic | A small injection numbs the area. This takes effect within seconds and keeps the procedure comfortable. |
| Removal | The skin tag is removed using excision with cautery, precision diathermy or cryotherapy, depending on what’s safest for the area. The process is usually quick and completed in one visit. |
| Wound Care | The site is cleaned and, if needed, a light dressing or ointment is applied. You can go home shortly after. |
| Aftercare Advice | You receive written guidance on washing, activity restrictions and signs to look out for. Most patients heal over 1–2 weeks with mild, temporary discomfort. |
Genital skin tags need careful assessment because several conditions can appear similar. At City Dermatology Clinic, examinations are carried out by clinicians experienced in vulval dermatology and minor surgical procedures. This ensures the diagnosis is accurate and that you’re offered the safest removal method for the area.
We use gentle, precise techniques suited to sensitive skin, with the option to send samples for histology when required. Consultations take place in a private setting, and treatment can usually be completed on the same day.
Our focus is on clear explanations, discreet care and predictable results, helping patients feel comfortable and informed throughout their treatment in London.
Our Team
Our clinicians have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating genital skin tags, along with the wider range of vulval lumps and bumps. Each consultation is carried out with privacy, sensitivity and medical accuracy, ensuring you receive clear guidance and safe treatment from start to finish.
Our clinicians have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating genital skin tags, along with the wider range of vulval lumps and bumps. Each consultation is carried out with privacy, sensitivity and medical accuracy, ensuring you receive clear guidance and safe treatment from start to finish.
No. Skin tags are benign growths and are not caused by infections or sexual activity. They are not contagious. During your assessment, our clinicians confirm the diagnosis and rule out conditions such as genital warts, which can appear similar.
Skin tags are usually soft, smooth and attached by a narrow stalk. Anything that’s painful, clustered, rough, changing in colour or growing quickly should be checked. At your consultation, a doctor examines the area closely and advises if removal or further tests are appropriate.
The area is numbed with a small local anaesthetic injection, which may sting briefly. Once numb, most patients feel only pressure or mild tugging. Slight soreness for a few days is normal and usually settles with simple pain relief if needed.
Most patients heal within one to two weeks. You may notice light scabbing, dryness or temporary colour changes as the skin repairs. Aftercare guidance is provided, including how to wash the area and when to avoid certain activities until the wound has settled.
Many skin tags are harmless in pregnancy, but treatment options may be limited depending on the location and symptoms. Your clinician will advise on whether removal is suitable now or better postponed until after delivery.
The treated tag will not return once removed, but new tags can appear in the same area, especially if friction, hormonal changes or pregnancy contributed to the original growth. Regular checks and early treatment can help keep the area comfortable.
