ask: It is bad when a mole appears out of nowhere?

Hi, Anon, and welcome to Empowher.

Moles often appear out of nowhere; we are not born with all the many moles we'll have when we're older. The fact that you didn't used to have this mole isn't reason in itself to be concerned.

How big would you say the mole is? As big around as a pencil eraser? Smaller? Larger?

Is it as smooth as the skin around it, or is it raised or bumpy?

Is it all the same color of brown, or are there different shades to it?

Are the colored edges of the mole smooth? Or do they appear raggedy?

And does it cause you any pain, or has it ever itched or bled?

Does it look like other moles you have elsewhere on your body?

Here's a page of images of normal moles and those that are more troublesome:

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/wyntk/moles-and-dysplastic-nevi/page8

If your mole is small, smooth, symmetrical, all one color and has never caused you any discomfort, it's probably fine. If it is large, raised or bumpy, has different shades of brown in it, does not have smooth edges or has ever caused you any discomfort, you should probably have it looked at. Most likely there's nothing to worry about, but as a doctor on a good web site says, "If it's something you've looked at twice, it's something to have looked at." Meaning, if it's something you're concerned about, it's worth a look.

Has this been of any help?

And on a personal note, I'm concerned that you feel you have to "confront" your dad about the possibility of a mole that bothers you. Do you think that he wouldn't listen to your concerns?

Hi Anon-

I have had moles too, my first at 16 and they are usually nothing to worry about. However, I would talk to your dad about seeing a dermatologist, a skin doctor.

I say this because you said one side of the mole looks bigger, and this would indicate it is not symmetrically. In this case, a dermatologist may want to remove the mole and test it for skin cancer.

I know this may be scary information, especially if you are also concerned about telling your dad, but you need to care for your health and have already taken a great, first step by asking the EmpowHer community for suggestions.

Additionally, even if the mole is benign (not cancerous), if it feels uncomfortable to walk, or is annoying to you, you may want it removed anyway.

In the meantime, if you can, take a picture of your mole and look for any changes. Does it grow? Is the color changing? This will also help a dermatologist, especially if you wait before seeing one.

If you have any other questions or concerns about your mole, I have personally had two removed, and I'm currently monitoring another.

Please, keep us informed and let us know what you decided to do.

Stay positive and continue to advocate for your health!

Well, I have a mole of the side of my belly. It's black, small, smooth, and it doesn't hurt or anything like that. I was wondering, Is that normal for a mole to be small? Thanks!