An enlarged clitoris can cause significant physical discomfort and emotional distress. You might experience difficulty with intimate relationships, discomfort during daily activities, or anxiety about your appearance. At Sarasota Surgical Arts, Dr. Alberico J. Sessa understands these concerns and offers compassionate, professional solutions to restore your comfort and confidence. Read on about why clitoris gets enlarged and what you can do about it?
What Is Clitoromegaly?
Clitoromegaly (medical term for clitoris) describes an abnormally enlarged clitoris that persists for a week or longer. The clitoris typically measures about 3/4 inch to 1 inch in diameter. If you have clitoromegaly, your clitoris may be significantly larger than this normal range. While temporary enlargement during sexual arousal is completely normal, persistent enlargement lasting a week or more requires medical attention.
Common Causes of Clitoris Enlargement
Hormonal Imbalances
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a frequent cause of clitoromegaly. This condition creates hormonal imbalances that lead to excess androgen production, resulting in clitoral enlargement.
Testosterone Therapy
Using testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for low libido or to increase energy levels can cause clitoral enlargement. Women seeking hormone replacement therapy for various health concerns may experience this as a side effect.
Congenital Conditions
Some individuals are born with conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), which causes the body to produce excess androgens during fetal development. This excess exposure to male hormones can result in clitoromegaly.
Other Medical Factors
Additional causes include:
- Using anabolic steroids
- Having a tumor on your adrenal gland
- Cysts or noncancerous tumors
- Vulvitis (inflammation of the external genitals), which can cause the clitoris to swell as part of the overall inflammatory response
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments
Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications or recommend over-the-counter treatments for an enlarged clitoris. For vulvitis or swelling caused by inflammation, cortisone creams or topical estrogen treatments may help alleviate symptoms. If hormonal imbalances or adrenal gland issues are the underlying cause, your provider may recommend hormone therapy to reduce androgen levels in your body.
Surgical Solutions: Clitoroplasty
This surgical approach reduces how far the clitoris protrudes while reshaping it to a more typical size, all while preserving sensitivity and function.
Understanding the Procedure
- Precise reduction of excess tissue
- Preservation of nerve endings
- Maintenance of sexual sensation
- Minimal scarring techniques
When to Seek Treatment
You should consider consulting Dr. Sessa at Sarasota Surgical Arts if:
- Your clitoris has been enlarged for more than one week
- You experience physical discomfort or pain
- Daily activities are affected by the condition
- You have concerns about your intimate relationships
- Conservative treatments have not provided adequate relief
Why Choose Sarasota Surgical Arts?
Dr. Alberico J. Sessa offers extensive experience in intimate surgical procedures, prioritizing patient comfort and privacy, individualized treatment planning, advanced surgical techniques, comprehensive aftercare support, and discreet, professional consultations.
What to Expect During Your Consultation
Your consultation at Sarasota Surgical Arts includes:
- Private discussion of your concerns and symptoms
- Physical examination when appropriate
- Comprehensive review of your medical history
- Detailed discussion of all treatment options
- Clear explanation of risks and benefits
- Personalized treatment recommendations tailored to your specific needs
Recovery and Results
Recovery varies depending on your chosen treatment approach. Non-surgical treatments may show improvement within several weeks, while surgical recovery typically involves:
- Initial healing within 2-3 weeks
- Return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks
- Full results visible after several months
Take the First Step
Living with clitoromegaly can significantly affect your quality of life, but effective treatments are available. Don’t let discomfort or concerns about your intimate health go unaddressed. Contact Sarasota Surgical Arts today to schedule your confidential consultation with Dr. Alberico J. Sessa. Our experienced team will guide you through your treatment options and help you make an informed decision about your care in a discreet and welcoming environment.