When I was 13, I found that one of my inner labia was at least three times larger than the other. Ever since then I have been extremely worried about it. The large side is wrinkly, stretchy and has a wobbly, jagged edge. It looks very strange and different from the other side. I am worried that I have cancer or an infection. I know it is natural for one side to be different from the other, but surely not to this extent? The larger one is also longer than my outer labia, and it hurts when it rubs against my underwear. This has made me very body shy in front of my boyfriend. Can you give me any advice or ideas? I am now 16, and still a virgin.

Mary

This longer labium is not cancer, and it is not an infection. None of us is perfectly symmetric from side to side, so it is not unusual for one of the labia to be longer than the other naturally. Various situations can increase the size of the labia, too. Women who ride bikes a lot often notice their labia getting longer from the friction of the bike seat. Many women notice a change after having children. Sometimes it happens from masturbation, again due to friction.

This is not a serious condition, but it can be a self-esteem issue. As you have noticed, it can also be uncomfortable, because the labia can get pulled when you insert a tampon, wear certain clothes or have intercourse. (By the way, I congratulate you on still being a virgin and would encourage you to not have sex anytime soon!)

Long labia can be treated. It involves a minor surgical procedure to trim the excess tissue and make the two sides more symmetric. Usually, this can be done in the doctor's office, using only local anesthetic. If it is done merely for cosmetic reasons, just because you don't like the way you look, insurance probably won't pay for it. However, if it is done for a medical reason -- say, if it is causing you pain or preventing you from wearing tampons -- insurance is more likely to pick up the tab. You will need to see a gynecologist to discuss this problem and what to do about it.