What is molluscum contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection that causes small, raised spots or lumps on the top layers of the skin. It accounts for about 1% of all skin disorders diagnosed in the United States, with prevalence highest among children.
These lumps are typically painless and have a characteristic dimple in the center. Molluscum contagiosum can affect anyone, but is more commonly seen in children and young adults. In adults, it is often transmitted through sexual contact.
Symptoms & Causes
Molluscum contagiosum usually causes small, firm bumps on the skin that can range in color from white or pink to the same color as the surrounding skin. The bumps are typically about the size of a pinhead to a pencil eraser and may appear anywhere on the body, though they are commonly found on the genitals, thighs, lower abdomen, or buttocks.
Molluscum contagiosum symptoms in adults
In adults, molluscum contagiosum is often seen in the genital area, including the penis, vulva, vagina, and anus. The bumps may:
- Have a small dimple or indentation in the center
- Be itchy, sore, red, or swollen
- Spread to other parts of the body through scratching or touching the sores
These bumps generally disappear on their own within six months to a year, though in some cases, they can persist longer. They typically do not leave scars.
How do you get molluscum contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or by touching objects contaminated with the virus, such as towels, clothing, bedding, or pool equipment. In adults, it is commonly spread through sexual contact.
You can also spread the virus to other parts of your body by touching or scratching the bumps and then touching another area. Shaving or other hair removal methods over the affected area can also spread the infection.
Testing & Treatment
Testing for molluscum contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is usually diagnosed by a healthcare provider through a visual examination of the characteristic bumps. No special tests are typically required, but it is important to consult with a healthcare provider if you notice any unusual sores or bumps, especially in the genital area.
Treatment for molluscum contagiosum
In most healthy individuals, molluscum contagiosum resolves on its own without treatment. However, treatment may be recommended if the bumps are located around the genitals or if they cause significant discomfort or cosmetic concerns. Treatment options include:
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the bumps with liquid nitrogen
- Topical treatments: Applying creams or ointments to reduce the appearance of the bumps
- Laser therapy: Using a laser to remove the bumps
It’s important not to try to remove the bumps or squeeze the fluid out yourself, as this can spread the infection to other areas of your body and may lead to secondary infections.
Preventing molluscum contagiosum
To reduce the risk of contracting or spreading molluscum contagiosum:
- Avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals
- Do not share personal items such as towels, clothing, or bedding
- Practice good hygiene, including washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Use condoms during sexual activity, though this may not completely prevent the spread of the virus
Regular sexual health check-ups are also important to help detect and manage molluscum contagiosum and other sexually transmitted infections.
Telling your partner
If you have molluscum contagiosum, you should tell your current partners and anyone else that you’ve had sex with in the last 6 months. They can have molluscum contagiosum without knowing it, so they should get tested as well.
TellYourPartner.com helps you send an anonymous molluscum contagiosum text, so you can let partners know they’ve had contact with an infection without revealing your name.