Molluscum Contagiosum in Women Pictures - 18 Photos & Images

Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin infection caused by a virus. It’s annoying, but not dangerous. Any woman can get it, especially if you are sexually active or have trouble fighting off infection.

Molluscum contagiosum first appears as very small (about 1/8 inch across), smooth, round, pearly bumps. The bumps are hard with a dimple in the middle. They are the color of your flesh, pink, or white, and they are usually no bigger than the size of a pencil eraser. You may see them on or around the pubic area, on the stomach, or inner thighs or anywhere on the body except the palms of your hands or the bottom of your feet. There may be one or two bumps or 10 to 20 or more than 50. Most people have a small group of bumps. The bumps are usually not painful or itchy but they can become red, swollen, uncomfortable and even itchy if they become infected. However, redness and soreness can also mean that they are healing naturally.

Most often the bumps resolve on their own without scarring. However, the most common complication is secondary infection by bacteria. These secondary infections can be particularly problematic for people who are immunocompromised, such as those with HIV/AIDS.

If you have symptoms of molluscum contagiosum, you should make an appointment with your health care provider, who can look at the bumps and make a diagnosis.