hamster has enlarged genital area

Question
Ever since we purchased our lovely furry friend back in October she has had an enlarged genital area that has only gone down once that I've noticed.  I thought she might be in estrus, but I don't think that anymore.  I sent a picture to the store where I purchased her and that's what they said it probably is.  Since I am not sure if it is her vaginal or anal area I don't know if I should be overly concerned for her health.

Answer
hi diana,

first off all are you absolutely sure your hamster is female? we thought we had purchased a girl only to find 6 motnhs later 'she' had developed a rather large lump at her rear, we took her to the vets and he told us it was acctually HIS testicle sack lol.

if you know that she is definately a girl then i dont really know what could be causing this, i am going to go and research this further, and get back to you, if she aooears to be getting more sick from this and i havent replied in the next day or so then see a vet.

sorry i couldnt be of more help at this time, but i will be in touch with more info soon. thank for your question.

joanne :)