I think I have a tumor. Is it benign?

[Svajone]

It's rather embarressing, but for about a year now I have had a lump in the right side of my vulva. It has not changed in size since I discovered it, and it is not painful. I think it might be a benign tumor, but I'm not certain. I doubt it's cancer, but I just want to be cautious because my aunt has had cervical cancer and my grandmother had to have a hystorectomy because of ovarian cancer. What should I do?

[Svajone]

Oh, I should probably mention that I talked to my doctor about it a while ago, and she seemed to think it was a clogged gland or a cyst and recommended applying pressure with a warm washcloth for 30 seconds a day. I've been doing that for several months with no results.

[Monica M, MD]

Hi,

You've had a lump on the right vulva for a year and I presume from your description that it has not changed in shape, size or appearence since then. These features point more towards a benign lesion. A clogged gland or a cyst are very likely possibilities. These may stay the same for a long time. You might consider seeing your doctor again though just to rule out something more serious.

All the best!