What should you know about melanoma on the labia?

Melanoma can arise in pigment-producing cells on the vulval skin, including the labia. It may appear as a new or changing brown, black, grey, or uneven patch, a raised lesion, or a sore that bleeds, crusts, itches, or remains open. Colour variation and asymmetry deserve a professional look, particularly when the area is different from nearby skin.

Many vulval conditions are not melanoma, including irritation, benign pigmentation, infection, and other skin disorders. A clinician may examine the area carefully and recommend a biopsy. Pathology is needed to identify the cause and to guide the extent of removal and any staging discussion.

Book an appointment with a dermatologist, gynaecologist, or qualified clinician familiar with vulval skin. You can request a chaperone and explain any privacy concerns before the examination. Avoid bleaching products, steroid creams unless prescribed, shaving over the mark, or trying to remove it. Note bleeding, discharge, pain, itching, and when the change began.

If melanoma is diagnosed, care may involve Surgical Excision or Skin Cancer Surgery, with planning to preserve comfort and function. The team may discuss Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy and, when appropriate, Immunotherapy. The pathology findings determine which options apply.

Seek prompt review for a labial mark that grows, changes colour or border, repeatedly bleeds, becomes ulcerated, or causes persistent itching or pain. Urgent care is appropriate for heavy bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, fever with a worsening wound, inability to pass urine, or severe pain. These symptoms should be assessed even when the cause is uncertain.

Ask who will examine the lesion, whether a biopsy is needed, how privacy and pain relief will be handled, and when results are expected. Ask what the pathology means, whether further excision or lymph-node assessment is recommended, how to care for the area afterward, and what follow-up will involve.