Most vulvar lumps and lesions, such as sebaceous or epidermoid cysts, skin tags, warts, harmless moles and Bartholin's cysts, are benign. Biopsy or removal is recommended when a lesion is growing, bleeding, painful, changing in color or shape, persistently itchy, or uncertain on examination. Excision under local anesthesia removes it and gives a definite pathology diagnosis.
- Common causes
- Cysts, skin tags, warts, moles
- First step
- Exam in English, same day
- Biopsy
- Small sample, local anesthesia
- Excision
- Removes the whole lesion
- Results
- Pathology in about 1 week
- Cost guide
- ₩150,000–2,500,000 (general guide)
Common types of vulvar lumps and lesions
| Lesion | What it is like | Usual approach |
|---|---|---|
| Sebaceous or epidermoid cyst | Smooth, round lump under the skin; may become inflamed | Leave alone, or excise if bothersome or recurrent |
| Skin tag (fibroepithelial polyp) | Soft, skin-colored flap on a stalk | Removal if it rubs, bleeds or is unwanted |
| Genital warts | Small rough or cauliflower-like bumps from HPV | Topical treatment, cryotherapy, laser or excision; see genital wart removal |
| Mole (nevus) | Flat or raised brown spot | Monitor; excise if changing or atypical |
| Angiokeratoma | Small dark red or purple dots | Usually harmless; removal if bleeding |
| Bartholin's cyst | Swelling at one side of the vaginal opening | See Bartholin's cyst |
| Lichen sclerosus | White, thin, itchy patches | Biopsy if uncertain; steroid ointment and regular checks |
| Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) | Raised, discolored or persistent itchy area | Biopsy; treatment by excision or specialist care |
Warning signs that need a biopsy
Vulvar cancer is uncommon and occurs mostly in older women, but early assessment matters. See a gynecologist promptly if a lesion:
- Is new and has not settled within a few weeks
- Grows, changes color or shape, or has irregular edges
- Bleeds, forms an ulcer or a sore that does not heal
- Causes itching or burning that persists despite treatment
- Feels hard or fixed, or comes with swollen groin glands
Biopsy, excision or watchful waiting?
| Situation | Usual recommendation |
|---|---|
| Typical benign lesion, no symptoms | Reassurance and self-monitoring |
| Benign lesion that rubs, bleeds or bothers you | Simple excision under local anesthesia |
| Patch, rash or ulcer of uncertain cause | Punch biopsy first, then treatment based on the result |
| Small lesion with any warning sign | Excisional biopsy (remove it whole and test it) |
| Confirmed precancerous change | Planned excision or referral to a specialist center |
Details of anesthesia, stitches, healing and pathology are on our page on the excision procedure.
- A new lump or bump on the vulva
- A mole or patch that is changing
- Itching, rubbing or bleeding
- Uncertainty about what it is
- A clear diagnosis, confirmed by pathology when needed
- Removal when a lesion is bothersome or uncertain
- A treatment plan explained in English
- Follow-up checks for ongoing skin conditions
How lesions are assessed at Yoonho
- Private consultation in English You describe when the lesion appeared and any symptoms. Questions are asked respectfully and discreetly.
- Examination The vulva is examined under good light, sometimes with magnification.
- Tests if needed Swabs or blood tests when an infection is possible; see STD testing.
- A clear plan Reassurance, treatment, biopsy or excision is recommended, with a written cost estimate.
- Procedure Small biopsies and simple excisions can often be arranged soon after the first visit.
- Results Pathology results are explained in English, with a written report for your home doctor.
Self-care and prevention
- Do not squeeze or cut cysts or lumps yourself; this can cause infection and scarring.
- Shaving and waxing can cause ingrown hairs and folliculitis that look like lumps; gentle care and breathable cotton underwear help.
- Look at the vulva with a mirror from time to time so you notice changes early.
- The HPV vaccine helps prevent genital warts and some vulvar precancers; see HPV vaccine in Seoul.
Cost and insurance for international patients
As a general guide, vulvar lesion removal ranges from about ₩150,000 to ₩2,500,000, depending on the type, size and number of lesions and pathology. A written estimate is given after consultation.
- Medically necessary biopsy or removal may be covered for residents enrolled in National Health Insurance; cosmetic removal is not.
- Visitors can request English documents for travel insurance claims.
See all procedures in surgical gynecology.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Is a lump on my vulva an STD?
Not necessarily. Most vulvar lumps are cysts, skin tags, ingrown hairs or moles. Genital warts and herpes are sexually transmitted, and an examination with testing when needed gives a clear answer.
Can I pop a vulvar cyst myself?
It is best not to. Squeezing can push infection deeper and cause scarring. A painful or growing cyst should be examined, and drained or removed if needed.
Is vulvar cancer common?
No. Vulvar cancer is uncommon and mostly affects older women, but any persistent itchy patch, ulcer or changing mole should be checked.
Can a benign lesion be removed for comfort or appearance?
Yes, benign lesions that rub or bother you can be removed. Purely cosmetic removal is generally not covered by insurance.
Can I walk in without an appointment?
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome during opening hours, although booking by WhatsApp or KakaoTalk can reduce waiting time.
OB-GYN Specialist · Ph.D. · Medical Director
Former Professor of OB-GYN, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine · Former editorial board member, AAGL · 11th President, Korean Society of Aesthetic Gynecology
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
Talk to an English-speaking gynecologist
Yoonho Hospital · 304 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.