Anal skin tags are benign, soft growths of excess skin that form around the anus. They are typically painless and asymptomatic. These growths can affect individuals of any age or gender but are more common in adults, particularly those who are pregnant, have obesity, or experience chronic constipation. Anal skin tags are not contagious, are not caused by sexually transmitted infections, and pose no long-term health risks. While they generally do not lead to complications, they can occasionally become irritated or cause issues with hygiene. Treatment is typically considered only if they cause significant psychological distress. The prognosis is excellent, and while they can recur after removal, proper hygiene and bowel habits can reduce this likelihood. They do not impact pregnancy, childbirth, or sexual health.
Quick Overview
Symptoms
Painless, soft, and fleshy growths may be noticeable around the anus. These small, flesh-coloured or pinkish growths can sometimes be accompanied by itching or irritation.
Causes
Anal skin tags result from the stretching and tearing of perianal skin, which can occur due to childbirth, anal fissures, haemorrhoids, or inflammatory bowel disease. Factors that increase risk include obesity, chronic constipation or diarrhea, and prolonged straining during bowel movements. They are not caused by sexually transmitted infections.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination where a clinician visually inspects the perianal area. Anal skin tags may be mistaken for haemorrhoids, which are usually more painful and can cause bleeding. A biopsy may be performed in rare cases to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Anal skin tags do not require treatment unless they negatively affect an individual’s mental wellbeing.
Prevention
Maintaining good bowel habits and avoiding excessive straining can help prevent anal skin tags. A high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, and regular exercise support healthy bowel function and reduce risk.
Prognosis
The long-term prognosis is good, as these growths are harmless. While treated skin tags can recur, maintaining good hygiene and healthy bowel habits can minimise the chance of their return.
FAQs
You may notice painless, soft, and fleshy growths around the anus. These growths are usually small and may be accompanied by itching or irritation.
Anal skin tags appear as small, flesh-coloured or pinkish growths around the anus, just like a regular skin tag on other parts of the body. They are usually soft and painless to touch.
Anal skin tags can affect people of all ages and genders, but they are more commonly seen in adults and those who are carrying extra weight.
Anal skin tags usually do not lead to any complications if left untreated. However, in some cases, they may become irritated or inflamed, leading to discomfort or itching. Rarely, they may also cause problems with hygiene or interfere with bowel movements.
Anal skin tags are usually caused by the stretching and tearing of the skin around the anus. This can happen due to childbirth or can reflect an underlying problem such as anal fissures, haemorrhoids or inflammatory bowel disease.
No, anal skin tags are not caused by a sexually transmitted infection or any infectious diseases.
There are several factors that can increase the likelihood of getting anal skin tags. These include obesity, chronic constipation or diarrhea, prolonged sitting or straining during bowel movements, and aging.
Wearing a condom does not directly prevent anal skin tags. Anal skin tags are not contagious and cannot be transmitted during sex.
Repeated trauma to the area, chronic inflammation, and underlying medical conditions such as Crohn's disease or inflammatory bowel disease, may cause a more severe case of anal skin tags to develop.
To help prevent getting anal skin tags, it is important to maintain good bowel habits and avoid excessive straining during bowel movements. Eating a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly can also help promote healthy bowel function and reduce the risk of developing anal skin tags.
Anal skin tags are typically diagnosed through an examination. Your clinician will visually inspect the area around the anus to identify the presence of skin tags.
Another condition that can be mistaken for anal skin tags is hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area that can also cause protrusions. However, hemorrhoids are usually more painful and may cause bleeding during bowel movements. It is important to consult with a clinician for an accurate diagnosis.
There may be cases where a clinician may recommend a biopsy to be performed. This includes a small sample of tissue being taken for examination under a microscope. However, in most cases, a physical examination is sufficient to diagnose anal skin tags.
The long-term prognosis for someone who has anal skin tags is generally good. These tags are usually harmless and do not cause any serious health problems. However, it is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent any potential complications.
Once treated, it is possible for anal skin tags to recur. However, with proper care and hygiene, you can minimise the chances of them coming back. If you notice any new tags or changes in the area, it is best to consult with your clinician.
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent anal skin tags from returning, there are some measures you can take to reduce the risk. Maintaining good hygiene, including regular cleaning and keeping the area dry, can help. Additionally, avoiding excessive straining during bowel movements and maintaining a healthy diet with adequate fiber intake may also be beneficial.
Whether or not you need to tell your partner about having or having had anal skin tags is a personal decision. Skin tags are not contagious or sexually transmitted, and they do not pose any significant health risks.
No, anal skin tags cannot be transmitted to the baby during pregnancy or childbirth.
There are no specific risks or complications associated with anal skin tags during pregnancy.
There are no specific treatment options for anal skin tags during pregnancy.
Anal skin tags do not impact postpartum recovery or breastfeeding.
Yes. You can still have unprotected sex if you or any of your partners have anal skin tags. Skin tags are not contagious or caused by sexually transmitted infections. They are benign skin growths that pose no harm to you or your partners in any way.
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Page last reviewed by Mrs. Magdalena Nowacka 30 January 2024 for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.