In short
An anal skin tag may develop after pregnancy, childbirth, an external haemorrhoid, inflammation or a healed anal fissure. It is harmless and is not the same as an active haemorrhoid, but it can make cleaning difficult, cause itching and irritation or feel troublesome in everyday life. Both women and men are welcome for a discreet specialist assessment.
What happens at the examination
We examine the area and confirm that the skin tag is responsible for the symptoms. A coexisting anal fissure, haemorrhoids or other condition may need treatment first. Proctoscopy and/or rectoscopy is added when symptoms or findings make it appropriate.
- Discreet external examination
- Assessment for haemorrhoids or a fissure
- Proctoscopy and/or rectoscopy when indicated
- Planning local anaesthesia and healing
Treatment options
The most suitable treatment is decided after an individual medical assessment.
After treatment
The wound may be left partly open to heal. Tenderness, minor bleeding and stinging during bowel movements are common initially. You receive advice on hygiene, stools and pain relief.
Frequently asked questions
Are anal skin tags dangerous?
No. They are benign, although examination is needed if the diagnosis is uncertain or symptoms change.
Are anal skin tags common after pregnancy and childbirth?
Yes. Pressure, swelling and haemorrhoid symptoms during pregnancy or childbirth can leave folds of skin around the anus. Symptoms are assessed individually once the body has recovered.
Can anal skin tags develop after haemorrhoids?
Yes. When an external haemorrhoid or swelling settles, excess skin may remain as an anal skin tag.
Is an anal skin tag the same as a haemorrhoid?
No. A skin tag is a fold of skin. It may remain after an external haemorrhoid or fissure but is not the same as an active haemorrhoid.
Can anal skin tags cause hygiene problems or itching?
Yes. The fold of skin can make cleaning after bowel movements more difficult and contribute to moisture, itching, chafing or recurrent irritation.
Do anal skin tags need to be removed?
No. An asymptomatic skin tag is harmless. Surgery is considered when it causes clear hygienic, functional or other personal symptoms.
Can skin tags be removed under local anaesthesia?
Yes. Smaller, suitably located skin tags can often be removed under local anaesthesia after examination and planning.
Can the skin tag be removed at the first visit?
In selected cases planned in advance, a minor procedure may be performed in connection with the assessment. A separate procedure is often booked once the diagnosis and suitable method have been established.
What is the wound like afterwards?
The wound may be stitched or left partly open depending on its location and size. Tenderness, minor discharge and bleeding can occur during healing.
When can I return to work?
This depends on the extent of the procedure and the type of work. Many people return relatively quickly, while physical work may require longer adjustment.
Will removal affect bowel control?
A superficial skin tag is in the skin and the procedure should not involve the sphincter muscle. The surgeon always assesses the anatomy before treatment.
Can they return?
New tags can develop, especially if underlying irritation, fissure or haemorrhoids persist.
Medically reviewed by Dr Elias Tsiolis, specialist in general surgery, senior consultantUpdated 2026-10-25This text does not replace an individual assessment.