Labial Reduction in Adolescent Population—A Case Series Study

Abstract 

Study objective

To find the primary referral reasons for labial reduction in adolescent girls.

Design

A retrospective review of six case notes of patients from July 2003 to January 2007.

Setting

Pediatric and adolescent gynecology clinic.

Interventions and outcome

Unilateral or bilateral labial reduction. The procedure was done by standard trimming of the protuberant edge of the labia minora and over-sewing the edge with 3-0 vicryl rapide.

Results

The age ranged from 11 to 16 years old. The reasons for requesting labial reduction were labia getting caught in underwear, being prominent under swimwear, causing vulval irritation, and its appearance causing embarrassment. All the patients were satisfied with the outcome.

Conclusions

Two groups requested labial reduction. In the first group the enlarged labia caused physical discomfort. In the other group the procedure was carried out for cosmetic reasons. It is important to carefully choose the patients in the later group, because it can otherwise lead to dissatisfaction and regret later on in life. The child can give consent if Gillick competent, but it is a good practice to involve person with parental responsibility in the process of making a decision.

Key Words: Enlarged labia, Adolescent, Labial reduction, Consent, Body image