Surgical Intervention for Suspicious Mole on Clitoral Hood
33 years old, weighing 102 kg, height is 5 feet 6 inches, currently on 150 mg Sertraline and receiving Wegovy injections. I visited the dermatologist today following a referral from my general practitioner, which I had to advocate for as they initially deemed it unproblematic. There’s a mole located on my clitoral hood that has changed from being flat to a small raised bump. The specialist mentioned it exhibited characteristics that began with the letter 'A.' They indicated that it seemed to show signs of bleeding, as it contained patches of dark pigmentation, along with various terms I struggled to comprehend, and featured a dimple at its center. I am scheduled for the removal of this mole in a couple of weeks, after which it will be tested for cancerous cells. The doctor explained that they would use a local anesthetic, remove the mole, and then stitch the area. This particular mole is situated on the delicate skin adjacent to the clitoris, specifically on the side sections of the clitoral hood. I was informed that the procedure might lead to reduced sensitivity due to the injections, which is something I find quite frightening. For those with experience in minor surgery involving the clitoral hood, what are the odds that I might experience nerve damage from the local anesthetic, which could affect sensitivity in my clitoris? Additionally, what is the typical recovery period for a procedure in such a sensitive area? Has anyone else noticed a concerning mole on the clitoral hood that turned out not to be vulvar melanoma?
Answers (1)
6/20/2025, 9:30:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about changes in a mole, especially in a sensitive area like the clitoral hood. The upcoming procedure to remove the mole is a common step toward ensuring it is safe and healthy. Let’s address your main concerns regarding nerve sensation and recovery.
Main Points
- Nerve Sensitivity Risk: There is a possibility of temporary sensitivity changes after any surgery around the clitoral area due to nerve endings, but permanent damage is rare.
- Recovery Time: Healing typically takes about 1 to 3 weeks, depending on individual factors and how your body responds.
Explanation
The mole you described has several concerning features, such as bleeding and changes in shape and color, which understandably prompted the referral and subsequent procedure. In terms of nerve sensitivity, the local anesthetic is used to numb the area during the procedure and is unlikely to cause permanent nerve damage, especially if performed by an experienced dermatologist. Temporary changes in sensitivity may occur, but many people retain normal sensation after healing.
Next Steps
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Before the Procedure:
- Discuss your concerns about sensitivity with your dermatologist. This open communication can help ease your fears and ensure they're aware of your anxiety regarding potential nerve impacts.
- Write down any questions you have, especially about the technique they plan to use and the recovery process.
-
Post-Procedure Care:
- Follow all aftercare instructions given by your doctor for optimal healing, including keeping the area clean and dry.
- Avoid any irritants (like tight clothing, scented products, or activities that might stress the area) until fully healed.
-
Monitoring Recovery:
- Keep an eye on the site for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.
- If you notice any unusual changes in your sensitivity or experience significant discomfort, reach out to your healthcare provider promptly.
Remember, many individuals experience changes in moles that turn out to be benign, and it's positive that your doctor is acting on your concerns. You're taking proactive steps to ensure your health, which is essential. If you have any further worries or need additional information, feel free to reach out.
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