How to Care for Vulvar Dermatitis

Treating Vulva Dermatitis at Home

When you visit a Vulva Specialist, at the time you are given your Personalised Treatment Plan, you will also give you some self-management tips (according to the severity and root cause of your condition). These include:

• Using a lubricating gel or cream moisturiser (if your vulva skin is dry)
• Washing your vaginal region approximately once a day. – This should be done using mild, non-irritating soap, and cool water. After this, you should pat the area dry – never rub it
• Ease any inflammation or irritation by applying a cold compress
• Apply a specific anti-itch ointment/cream [1].

So What Causes Vulvar Dermatitis?

There are a number of different reasons. These comprise:
•Eczema: skin inflammation which leads to in an itchy, scaly rash
•Psoriasis: a condition which makes the skin cells produce silver, scaly patches
•Bacterial vaginosis: caused by bacteria, this is often due to disruption of the vagina’s microbial flora
•Yeast infection: which is due to the fungus, candida
•Hormone medication: according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), taking particular medication, such as birth control, puts women at risk from yeast infections
•Lichen sclerosis: a condition which generates small white patches around the vagina area
•Sensitivities & allergies: some fragrances and products such as lubes, moisturisers, laundry detergents or soaps, could impact your pH balance, or cause irritation
•STIs (sexually transmitted infections): could generate vulva irritation. These include: trichomoniasis, genital warts, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and herpes
•Apparel: this can rub the skin and trap sweat. – Both of which can lead to itching and irritation
•Vulva Cancer: while this condition is not common, it does cause a number of symptoms. These comprise: constant itching, stinging, paler or redder skin, pelvic pain, ulcers and lumps. If you are suffering from this form of cancer, be sure to have regular check-ups with your Vulva Consultant [1].

Be Mindful of Any Allergies

If you use any new products, and you find that you have a reaction, you may have an allergy.
If this occurs, stop applying the product immediately, as see if your symptoms disappear. – This should happens within a couple of weeks. If they don’t, then contact your Vulva Specialist.

Yeast Infections

Your Pain Consultant will be able to tell you if you have a yeast infection. If this is the case, they will prescribe suitable anti-fungal medication, suppositories, ointment or cream. They will then review your condition on your follow-up appointment.

Reference

[1]. Braun, A. (2021). “How to Care for Vulvar Dermatitis: Symptoms and Treatment Methods.” VeryWellHealth.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-care-for-vulvar-dermatitis-symptoms-and-treatment-