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Other Names: Contact Vulvitis
Vulvar Itching
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Contact vulvitis is a skin problem that causes vulvar/vaginal
itching and burning when there is no infection.
This occurs when the vulvar skin becomes very sensitive to products called
contact irritants. Examples include things such as laundry detergents,
fabric softeners, body soaps and feminine hygiene products (such as douches,
vaginal deodorants, pads or wipes). A complete list is included later.
Regular and continued use of these products over a period of time cause irritation,
burning and/or itching.
Contact vulvitis is rarely an allergic reaction.
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- Mild to severe itching
and/or burning on vulva.
- Vulvar redness and
swelling.
- Raw feeling due to the
vulvar irritation.
- Damp/wet feeling due to
the oozing of the irritated skin surface. Some women mistake this
dampness to be a vaginal discharge.
- Vulvar pain, in more
advanced cases, with insertion of a tampon, speculum, or with
intercourse.
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Your doctor or health care provider will examine the vulva area to look for
common skin changes seen with contact vulvitis. A sample of your discharge is
collected and tested to rule out infection.
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- Laundry detergents
containing enzymes, whiteners, and brighteners
- Fabric softeners and
dryer sheets
- Bath soaps, gels,
lotions
- Bubble bath, oils, bath
salts, skin softeners
- Feminine hygiene sprays,
perfumes or powders
- Adult and baby wipes or
towelettes
- Deodorant tampons and
pads
- Douches
- Contraceptive creams,
jellies, foams and sponges
- Condoms, prepackaged
with lubricant or spermicides
- Colored, perfumed toilet
paper
- Synthetics such as nylon
underwear or panty hose
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- Remove irritants.
- Apply Steroid Ointments
- Use: Apply thin layer to areas of discomfort
- Action: Decrease redness, swelling, itching, burning
- Caution: Use only as prescribed by your doctor. Overuse may result
in thinning of the skin which will make your problem worse rather than
helping it.
- Baking Soda Soaks Soak in luke warm bath water with 4-5 tablespoons
of baking soda to help soothe vulvar itching and burning. Soak 2-3 times
a day for 10-15 minutes. If you are using a sitz bath, use 1-2 teaspoons
of baking soda.
- Gold Bond or Zeasorb powder may be applied to the vulva and groin
areas if chronic dampness/moisture is a problem.
Symptoms should resolve
with these suggestions. If symptoms persist, further follow-up and
treatment may be needed.
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