Current Environment:

Overview

The labia are basically two fat pads to protect a woman's clitoris and vagina from trauma. Labial hypertrophy is a harmless condition in which one or both sides of the labia grow to larger sizes.

  • The cause of labial hypertrophy is unclear.
  • Having larger than normal labia isn't dangerous, though it may cause pain or chronic infections.
  • Women with labial hypertrophy have normal sexual function because the clitoris, clitoral hood and vagina are normal.

How Boston Children's Hospital approaches labial hypertrophy

At Children's Center for Congenital Anomalies of the Reproductive Tract, an interdisciplinary team of pediatricians, gynecologists, urogynecologists and colorectal surgeons will work with your daughter to find the best approach to her labial hypertrophy.

Symptoms and Causes

In-Depth

What are the symptoms of labial hypertrophy?

A larger than normal size of one or both sides of the labia

How will labial hypertrophy affect my daughter's life?

Labial hypertrophy should not affect her sexual life, but she may be displeased with a "bulge" in her bathing suit or underwear. She may experience discomfort or irritation during activities such as horseback riding.

Testing and Diagnosis

Tests

How is labial hypertrophy diagnosed?

A physician can confirm that your daughter's labia are enlarged on one side or both sides.

Treatments

Girls with labial hypertrophy who have no symptoms don't require surgical intervention. If a young woman is experiencing discomfort or increased infections, she can have a procedure to reduce the size of the labia.

Programs & Services

Programs

Center for Congenital Anomalies of the Reproductive Tract

Program

Boston Children's Hospital - Center for Congenital Anomalies of the Reproductive Tract

Center for Young Women's Health

Program

Boston Children's Hospital - Center for Young Womens Health