HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologybrown patches on the vulvaIs it normal to have brown patches on the vulva?

Is it normal to have brown patches around my vulva?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Sameer Kumar

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At November 21, 2021
Reviewed AtNovember 24, 2021

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have brown patches around my vulva. They have been there as far as I can remember. But my new partner has brought them to my attention. Is this normal?

Answered by Dr. Sameer Kumar

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thanks for the query. If the patches have been there for as long as you remember and have not been growing in size or not spreading as satellites to the adjacent area, they are pigmentation likely since birth and similar to naevus on skin. However, if it has been a recent development, one can keep melanoma in mind as a potential cause and opt to be investigated to rule it out. Regards.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

Thank you. I had a pelvic exam two years back, and my doctor did not say anything about it. I have had these years, and no changes that I have noticed. They are not raised, and they remain flat to the skin. They did not hurt, itch, or get irritated. I did not think anything of it until my recent partner pointed it out.

Answered by Dr. Sameer Kumar

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I would agree with you that it does not appear to be a melanoma since it is not much hyperpigmented over the vaginal mucosal lining and not spreading or does not show metastasis in any form either. It is a collection of non-malignant melanocytes. In 3% of healthy women, melanocytes can be found in the basal portion of the vaginal epidermis as embryological remnants of neural crest cells. This is what it is. Keep a watch, and if it seems to increase, then a punch biopsy and histological diagnosis would be conclusive. Regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sameer Kumar
Dr. Sameer Kumar

Obstetrics and Gynecology

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