What causes vaginal cuts. How to identify and treat vaginal cuts at home. When should you see a doctor for vaginal cuts. What are the potential complications of untreated vaginal cuts. How to prevent vaginal cuts and maintain vaginal health.

Understanding Vaginal Cuts: Types and Causes

Vaginal cuts are common occurrences that many women experience at some point in their lives. These cuts can range from superficial scrapes to deeper lacerations, each with its own set of causes and treatment approaches. Understanding the types and causes of vaginal cuts is crucial for proper care and prevention.

Superficial Cuts: Common Causes and Characteristics

Superficial cuts, also known as simple cuts, are the most common type of vaginal cuts. They typically heal on their own within a few days and are often caused by everyday activities:

• Shaving or other hair removal methods
• Sexual activity (foreplay and intercourse)
• Tight or abrasive clothing
• Insertion of tampons or menstrual cups

These cuts are usually shallow and may cause minor discomfort or slight bleeding. While they can be bothersome, they rarely require medical intervention if properly cared for at home.

Mystery Cuts: Deeper Lacerations with Less Obvious Causes

Mystery cuts are slightly deeper than superficial cuts but do not typically require immediate medical attention. These cuts may occur without an apparent cause and can be related to various factors:

• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., fluctuating estrogen levels)
• Chronic skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis, lichen planus)
• Vitamin deficiencies (particularly vitamins C and D)
• Certain medications (e.g., oral corticosteroids)

Understanding the potential causes of mystery cuts can help in addressing underlying issues and preventing future occurrences.

Identifying Vaginal Cuts: Signs and Symptoms

Properly identifying vaginal cuts is crucial for determining the appropriate course of action. While discomfort and minor bleeding are common symptoms, a visual inspection is often necessary to assess the severity of the cut.

How can you examine vaginal cuts?

To examine vaginal cuts, follow these steps:

1. Position a compact or hand mirror to see the reflection of your vagina
2. Sit on the edge of a chair or lie on your back for better visibility
3. Gently spread the labia to examine the vaginal area
4. Look for any visible cuts, tears, or abrasions
5. Assess the depth and length of the cut

If visual inspection is difficult, you may carefully touch the affected area to gauge the severity of the cut. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching the genital area to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Common Symptoms of Vaginal Cuts

Vaginal cuts often present with the following symptoms:

• Discomfort or pain in the vaginal area
• Stinging or burning sensation, especially during urination
• Minor bleeding or spotting
• Redness or swelling around the affected area
• Increased sensitivity to touch

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of other vaginal health issues. If you’re unsure about the cause of your symptoms or if they persist, consult a healthcare professional.

Home Treatment for Vaginal Cuts: Dos and Don’ts

Most superficial vaginal cuts can be effectively treated at home with proper care and attention. Following these guidelines can help promote healing and prevent complications.

Do’s for Treating Vaginal Cuts at Home

• Wash the affected area gently with warm water once or twice daily
• Pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel
• Wear breathable, cotton underwear and loose-fitting bottoms
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Apply a barrier ointment like Aquaphor to the external vulva area to promote healing

Don’ts for Vaginal Cut Care

• Don’t use harsh or perfumed soaps, as they can disrupt the vagina’s pH balance
• Avoid applying any medication or ointment directly inside the vagina without consulting a doctor
• Refrain from using Neosporin, as it carries a risk of allergic reaction
• Don’t engage in sexual activity until the cut has healed completely
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing or underwear that may irritate the area

By following these guidelines, most simple vaginal cuts should heal within a week. If symptoms persist or worsen after a few days of home treatment, it’s advisable to seek medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Vaginal Cuts

While many vaginal cuts can be treated at home, certain situations warrant professional medical care. Recognizing these scenarios is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring proper treatment.

Signs That Indicate a Need for Medical Attention

Seek medical help if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent bleeding that doesn’t stop with light pressure
• Cuts that appear deep or gaping
• Signs of infection (e.g., increased redness, swelling, pus, or fever)
• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter pain relievers
• Cuts that don’t show signs of healing after a week of home treatment
• Recurrent vaginal cuts or tears

Additionally, if you’re unsure about the cause of your symptoms or if you have any concerns about your vaginal health, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare provider.

What to Expect During a Medical Examination

When you visit a healthcare provider for vaginal cuts, you can expect the following:

1. A thorough discussion of your symptoms and medical history
2. A physical examination of the affected area
3. Possible tests to rule out infections or other underlying conditions
4. Treatment recommendations based on the severity and cause of the cut

Your healthcare provider may prescribe topical or oral medications, recommend specific hygiene practices, or suggest further tests if necessary.

Preventing Vaginal Cuts: Tips for Vaginal Health

Taking proactive steps to maintain vaginal health can significantly reduce the risk of cuts and tears. Implementing these preventive measures can help keep your vaginal area healthy and resilient.

Hygiene and Lifestyle Tips for Vaginal Health

• Practice gentle cleansing with water or mild, unscented soap
• Wear breathable, cotton underwear
• Avoid douching or using scented vaginal products
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
• Use lubrication during sexual activity to reduce friction
• Practice safe sex and get regular STI screenings
• Manage chronic health conditions that may affect vaginal health

Addressing Underlying Causes of Recurrent Vaginal Cuts

If you experience frequent vaginal cuts, it’s important to address potential underlying causes:

• Consult with a healthcare provider about hormonal imbalances
• Seek treatment for chronic skin conditions
• Discuss vitamin deficiencies with your doctor and consider supplementation if necessary
• Review your medications with a healthcare provider to identify any that may contribute to skin fragility

By addressing these underlying factors, you can reduce your susceptibility to vaginal cuts and improve overall vaginal health.

Potential Complications of Untreated Vaginal Cuts

While most vaginal cuts heal without incident, leaving them untreated can sometimes lead to complications. Understanding these potential risks emphasizes the importance of proper care and timely medical attention when necessary.

Infections: A Primary Concern

One of the most significant risks of untreated vaginal cuts is infection. The vaginal area’s warm, moist environment can facilitate bacterial growth, potentially leading to:

• Bacterial vaginosis
• Yeast infections
• More severe infections that may spread to the urinary tract or reproductive organs

Symptoms of infection may include unusual discharge, strong odor, fever, and increased pain or swelling. If you suspect an infection, seek medical attention promptly.

Long-term Complications

While less common, untreated vaginal cuts can sometimes lead to more serious long-term complications:

• Scarring, which may cause discomfort during sexual activity
• Chronic pain or sensitivity in the affected area
• Increased susceptibility to future cuts and tears
• In rare cases, systemic infections that can affect overall health

These potential complications underscore the importance of proper care and attention to vaginal cuts, even if they seem minor initially.

The Role of Hormones in Vaginal Health and Susceptibility to Cuts

Hormones play a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health and can significantly influence the likelihood of experiencing vaginal cuts. Understanding this relationship can help in managing and preventing vaginal cuts more effectively.

Estrogen’s Impact on Vaginal Tissue

Estrogen is a key hormone in maintaining vaginal health. It affects the vagina in several ways:

• Promotes vaginal lubrication
• Maintains the thickness and elasticity of vaginal walls
• Supports healthy vaginal pH levels
• Enhances blood flow to the vaginal area

When estrogen levels fluctuate or decrease, as during menopause or certain phases of the menstrual cycle, the vaginal tissue can become thinner and more prone to cuts and tears.

Hormonal Changes and Vaginal Vulnerability

Several hormonal changes can increase vulnerability to vaginal cuts:

• Menopause: Declining estrogen levels can lead to vaginal atrophy
• Postpartum period: Hormonal fluctuations after childbirth can affect vaginal tissue
• Certain medications: Some birth control methods or other hormonal treatments can impact vaginal health
• Stress: High stress levels can affect hormone balance and vaginal health

If you’re experiencing recurrent vaginal cuts, discussing hormonal factors with your healthcare provider can be beneficial. They may recommend hormone therapy or other treatments to address underlying hormonal imbalances and improve vaginal health.

Understanding the complex interplay between hormones and vaginal health empowers individuals to take proactive steps in preventing vaginal cuts and maintaining overall vaginal wellness. Regular check-ups, open communication with healthcare providers, and attention to hormonal changes can all contribute to healthier vaginal tissue and reduced risk of cuts and tears.

Causes, Treatment, Identification, and Tips

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Most simple vaginal cuts will heal within a week or so. They usually don’t leave any lasting marks or result in any long-term complications. If your symptoms haven’t improved after a few days, you’re encouraged to consult with your doctor.

Is this cause for concern?

It isn’t unusual for women to develop cuts in their vaginal area after sexual intercourse or foreplay. In many cases, these cuts can heal on their own.

Certain conditions can also make you more susceptible to tears or scrapes in this area. Keep reading to find out more about why they may be happening, how to treat them, and when you should see your doctor.

Vaginal cuts are often accompanied by feelings of discomfort — especially during urination — and minor bleeding.

That said, it isn’t enough to suspect that you have a cut in your genital area. In order to properly treat it, you need to take a look at how deep the cut is and determine whether other symptoms, such as pus, are present.

The best way to assess your symptoms is to position a compact or hand mirror so that you can see the reflection of your vagina. Many women find it easier to do this when they’re seated on the edge of a surface, such as a chair, or when laying on their back.

If you’re unable to see this way, you may be able to assess the cut’s severity by gently touching the affected area. You should always wash your hands before and after you touch a wound — especially a wound in the genital area — to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Superficial cuts are also known as “simple cuts.” These kinds of cuts usually heal on their own within a couple of days.

Simple cuts are most often caused by everyday activities like shaving or other hair removal, foreplay, and sexual intercourse. In fact, sexual activity is the most common cause of vaginal cuts that are unconnected to childbirth.

If the cut is superficial, you should:

1. Wash the area with warm water once or twice per day.
2. Refrain from using harsh or perfumed soaps, as this can affect the delicate pH balance of your vagina.
3. Make sure the area is dry before you get dressed again.
4. Wear cotton underwear and loose bottoms until it’s healed.

If you’re in a lot of discomfort, you can take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).

You may also consider applying a topical medication or barrier ointment to help soothe the area. For example, you can apply a topical antibiotic like Bacitracin or a barrier ointment such as Aquaphor to help encourage your skin to heal faster. Neosporin isn’t recommended as a topical antibiotic due to its risk of allergic reaction. Only apply these ointments if the cuts are in the outer area around your vulva and its labia.

Shop for Bacitracin and Aquaphor now.

You should never apply medication, including antibacterial ointment, to your vagina without speaking to your doctor first.

It’s possible to get a cut in or around your vagina and have no idea what caused it. These cuts are a little deeper than a simple cut, but they aren’t gaping and profusely bleeding wounds that you should be immediately concerned about.

Mystery cuts are usually related to or caused by:

Hormone imbalances

It’s common for shifting estrogen levels to make the walls of your vagina thinner and more prone to tearing. Although fluctuating estrogen levels are usually associated with menopause, they can occur due to other reasons, too. Switching birth control methods or excessive exercise may be to blame.

Chronic skin conditions

Some skin conditions can make your skin more fragile and prone to tearing. Examples include:

• eczema
• psoriasis
• lichen planus
• lichen sclerosus

These can all negatively affect the skin on your vagina and vulva. Certain treatments for these conditions, like oral corticosteroids, can also cause your skin to weaken and thin over time.

Vitamin deficiencies

Deficiency in vitamin C or D can impact your skin tissue strength and cause it to tear more easily.

As with superficial cuts, you should:

1. Wash the area with warm water once or twice per day.
2. Refrain from using harsh or perfumed soaps, as this can affect the delicate pH balance of your vagina.
3. Make sure the area is dry before you get dressed again.
4. Wear cotton underwear and loose bottoms until it’s healed.

Shop for cotton underwear.

If you have a previously diagnosed condition that’s known to affect skin tissue strength, you may be able to avoid a trip to the doctor. Continue to wash and monitor the affected area for the next few days.

But if you aren’t seeing any improvement by the end of the week — or the cause is unknown — you should schedule an appointment with your doctor. They can help determine the cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan suited to your needs.

Deep cuts in and around your vagina are often a result of vaginal delivery. These wounds need immediate medical attention. They shouldn’t be left to heal on their own.

They can also happen as a result of sexual assault. If you’ve experienced sexual assault or were forced into any sexual activity, you should seek care from a trained healthcare provider. Organizations like the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) offer support for survivors of rape or sexual assault. You can call RAINN’s 24/7 national sexual assault hotline at 800-656-4673 for anonymous, confidential help.

Around 90 percent of women tear in some way during vaginal delivery, according to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. If you have a vaginal cut or tear that results from childbirth, your midwife or doctor should give you detailed instructions for how to care for the area.

If a tear has reopened or a new tear has occurred, it’s important that you seek immediate medical attention. Delaying care may result in long-term complications.

During the healing process, you may find it helpful to:

• Rinse the area with sterilized water. Use a small bottle with a narrow plastic tip (sometimes called a peri bottle) to do this. Your doctor may advise you to rinse after every time you use the bathroom or after every cleaning.
• Wear a pad for the first several days to help draw any blood away from the cut and keep the area clean.
• Take OTC pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to help ease your pain.

If you’ve experienced a sexual assault, you shouldn’t try to treat the wound on your own. Your doctor or healthcare provider can assess your symptoms and help you care for any lacerations or bruises that have occurred. They may also prescribe pain killers or other medication to help you treat your symptoms.

If you have cuts in your vagina, you should avoid vaginal penetration until the wounds are healed. Penetration could reopen or worsen the cut and introduce new bacteria. This may cause the cut to bleed or swell. It can also lead to infection.

If you do have sex while your cut is healing, use protection. Having unprotected sex while you have an open wound increases your risk of transmitting or developing infectious disease.

Also clean the area with warm water and pat it dry with a soft washcloth afterward. This can help prevent bacteria from getting into or staying in the wound.

Depending on where your cut is, you may also want to avoid tampons and menstrual cups while it heals. Using a panty liner or pad to catch period blood may help speed up the healing process.

Most simple vaginal cuts will heal within a week or so. They usually don’t leave any lasting marks or result in any long-term complications.

If your symptoms haven’t improved after a few days, make an appointment to see your doctor.

You should also see your doctor if:

• bleeding is continuous
• yellow or cloudy fluid is present
• pain is severe
• you’ve recently had a vaginal delivery
• sexual assault has occurred

Your doctor can diagnose your symptoms and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

Genital herpes – self-care Information | Mount Sinai

Herpes – genital – self-care; Herpes simplex – genital – self-care; Herpesvirus 2 – self-care; HSV-2 – self-care

Future Outbreaks

One type of herpes virus stays in the body by hiding within nerve cells. It can remain “asleep” (dormant) for a long time. The virus can “wake up” (reactivate) at any time. This can be triggered by:

• Fatigue
• Genital irritation
• Menstruation
• Physical or emotional stress
• Injury

The pattern of outbreaks varies widely in people with herpes. Some people carry the virus even though they’ve never had symptoms. Others may have only one outbreak or outbreaks that occur rarely. Some people have regular outbreaks that occur every 1 to 4 weeks.

Self-care

To ease symptoms:

• Take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin to relieve pain.
• Apply cool compresses to sores several times a day to relieve pain and itching.
• Women with sores on the vaginal lips (labia) can try urinating in a tub of water to avoid pain.

Doing the following may help sores heal:

• Wash sores gently with soap and water. Then pat dry.
• Do not bandage sores. Air speeds healing.
• Do not pick at sores. They can get infected, which slows healing.
• Do not use ointment or lotion on sores unless your provider prescribes it.

Wear loose-fitting cotton underwear. Do not wear nylon or other synthetic pantyhose or underwear. Also, do not wear tight-fitting pants.

Medicine

Genital herpes cannot be cured. Antiviral medicine (acyclovir and related drugs) may relieve pain and discomfort and help the outbreak go away faster. It may also reduce the number of outbreaks. Follow your provider’s instructions about how to take this medicine if it has been prescribed. There are two ways to take it:

• One way is to take it for about 7 to 10 days only when symptoms occur. This typically shortens the time it takes for symptoms to clear up.
• The other is to take it daily to prevent outbreaks.

Generally, there are very few if any side effects from this medicine. If they occur, side effects may include:

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rash
• Seizures
• Tremor

Reducing Outbreaks

Consider taking antiviral medicine daily to keep outbreaks from developing.

Taking steps to keep yourself healthy can also minimize the risk for future outbreaks. Things you can do include:

• Get plenty of sleep. This helps keep your immune system strong.
• Eat healthy foods. Good nutrition also helps your immune system stay strong.
• Keep stress low. Constant stress can weaken your immune system.
• Protect yourself from the sun, wind, and extreme cold and heat. Use sunscreen, especially on your lips. On windy, cold, or hot days, stay indoors or take steps to guard against the weather.

Preventing the Spread of Herpes

Even when you do not have sores, you can pass (shed) the virus to someone during sexual or other close contact. To protect others:

• Let any sexual partner know that you have herpes before having sex. Allow them to decide what to do.
• Use latex or polyurethane condoms, and avoid sex during symptomatic outbreaks.
• Do not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex when you have sores on or near the genitals, anus, or mouth.
• Do not kiss or have oral sex when you have a sore on the lips or inside the mouth.
• Do not share your towels, toothbrush, or lipstick. Make sure dishes and utensils you use are washed well with detergent before others use them.
• Wash your hands well with soap and water after touching a sore.
• Consider using daily antiviral medicine to limit viral shedding and reduce the risk of passing the virus to your partner.
• You may also want to consider getting your partner tested even if they have never had an outbreak. If you both have the herpes virus, there is no risk for transmission.

When to Call the Doctor

Contact your provider if you have any of the following:

• Symptoms of an outbreak that worsen despite medicine and self-care
• Symptoms that include severe pain and sores that do not heal
• Frequent outbreaks
• Outbreaks during pregnancy

Eckert LO, Lentz GM. Genital tract infections: vulva, vagina, cervix, toxic shock syndrome, endometritis, and salpingitis. In: Gershenson DM, Lentz GM, Valea FA, Lobo RA, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 23.

Whitley RJ, Gnann JW. Herpes simplex virus infections. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 350.

Workowski KA, Bachmann LH, Chan PA, et al. Sexually transmitted infections treatment guidelines, 2021. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2021;70(4):1-187. PMID: 34292926 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34292926/.

Last reviewed on: 11/10/2022

Reviewed by: John D. Jacobson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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Is this a cause for concern?

Irritation usually refers to pain, itching or swelling in the vaginal area. It can affect any part of the vulva, including yours. sleep, clitoris, urethra, and vaginal opening.

Temporary irritation is not usually a cause for concern and is often treated at home. You are likely to experience other recognizable symptoms if the irritation is due to an underlying medical condition.

Here’s what to look out for, how to get help, and when to see a healthcare professional.

1. Folliculitis

Folliculitis occurs when one or more hair follicles become inflamed or infected. This can happen anywhere hair grows.

The pubic area usually results from:

• shaving
• waxing
• other forms of hair removal

This itch is commonly referred to as “razor burn”. Unexpected bumps are often ingrown hairs.

Other symptoms include:

• sensitivity
• swelling
• pus

How to treat it

Burns, ingrown hairs and other forms of folliculitis usually disappear without treatment. You must leave this place for a few weeks to prevent further irritation.

If you are in severe pain or itching, you can get help:

• Wear loose clothing.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Application of a warm compress to relieve pain and tenderness.
• Apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching.
• Apply antibiotic ointment (neosporin) to prevent infection.

2. Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when a substance irritates the skin. This can happen anywhere on your body.

Substances that can cause contact dermatitis on the vulva include:

• laundry detergents
• chemicals on new clothes
• smells of menstrual products
• showers or feminine sprays
• latex condoms
• lubricants

the substance may be immediate or appear gradually over 1 or 2 days.

Symptoms may include:

• itching
• burning
• swelling
• tenderness
• red rash
• blistering
• blistering

How to treat it

Sustaining is the most important step in the treatment of contact dermatitis These means recognize the transgressive substance. Once you remove this substance, your rash should go away on its own.

Sometimes it can be difficult because you can suddenly react to something that you have experienced all your life.

You can also find:

• Wash skin with mild soap and warm water to remove any irritation.
• Take an oral antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to reduce general symptoms.
• Use a topical anti-itch medication such as hydrocortisone cream (Cortisone10).
• Take a warm (not hot) oatmeal bath to soothe your skin.

3. Hormonal changes

Many different things can cause hormone fluctuations.

During your monthly menstrual cycle, your body undergoes changes to prepare it for a possible pregnancy.

Each part of this process, from ovulation to menstruation, causes certain hormones to rise or fall.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding can also cause hormonal changes. Certain health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause these changes. Menopause also causes hormonal changes that lead to increased sensitivity of the vulva.

For example, if your estrogen levels drop, the skin of your vulva may become drier, thinner, and less elastic. This makes him more sensitive to irritation.

Scratches, rubbing against clothing, sexual intercourse and even toilet paper can cause irritation.

Symptoms may include:

• itching
• burning
• dryness
• small cracks or cuts
• tenderness
• redness

902 77

How to treat it

If you haven’t already, consider trying an over-the-counter vaginal moisturizer or lubricant.

Vaginal Moisturizers provide a permanent moisturizing effect and help the vaginal tissues retain moisture.

Water or silicone based lubricants can be applied before masturbation, foreplay and sex to reduce friction and discomfort.

If these options don’t work, talk to your doctor.

They may recommend hormonal birth control, including pills or an IUD, or estrogen-based vaginal therapy, including a cream or vaginal ring, to relieve symptoms.

4. Yeast infection

Vaginal yeast infections are caused by the growth of Candida.

They rarely occur before puberty and after menopause. But as much as 3 out of 4 women will experience one of those time periods, according to the Women’s Health Administration.

Symptoms observed in the vagina or vulva may include:

• itching
• swelling
• burning
• pain during penetration
• tenderness
• Osip
• reddening
• thick, white, curdled

How it’s treatable

Most yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal medications. These medicines come in the form of creams or suppositories that you use for 1 to 7 days.

Be sure to complete the entire course of treatment. The infection may return if you stop taking the medicine too soon.

You should also abstain from sexual activity until you have cleared the infection so that the medicine can work properly.

If over-the-counter drugs don’t work, see your doctor. They can confirm that you have a yeast infection and may prescribe stronger medications.

5. Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

As the name suggests, BV is a bacterial infection of the vagina.

This happens when certain bacteria in the vagina get out of control and upset the natural balance of “good” and “bad” bacteria.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this is the most common vaginal infection affecting women aged 15 to 44 years.

BV usually causes no symptoms.

When symptoms appear, they may include:

• white or gray discharge
• liquid or frothy discharge
• strong fishy smell, especially after sex or menstruation
• pain or tingling in the vagina and vulva

How to treat it

90 002 If you suspect BV, talk to your doctor. They may prescribe an oral or topical antibiotic.

Be sure to complete the entire course of treatment. The infection may return if you stop taking the medicine too soon.

You should also abstain from sexual activity until you have cleared the infection so that the medicine can work properly.

6. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

STIs general, They are transmitted through oral, vaginal or anal sex.

Many STIs can irritate the vulva, including:

• chlamydia
• gonorrhea
• Trichomoniasis
• genital warts
• genital herpes from

STIs do not always cause symptoms.

When they do, you may experience:

• pain during or after sex
• painful urination
• itching
• unexplained freckles
• unusual discharge

9027 1 unusual rash

• fever or chills
• lower abdominal pain
• blisters, bumps, and sores in the genital or anal area

How to treat it

If you suspect you have an STI or have been exposed to an STI, talk to your doctor.

Treatment will depend on the type of infection you have. Usually these are antibiotics or antiviral drugs.

Be sure to complete the entire course of treatment. The infection may return if you stop taking the medicine too soon.

You should also abstain from sexual activity until the infection has been removed so as not to pass it on to your partner.

7. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common autoimmune disease that causes a rapid accumulation of skin cells.

There are several different types of psoriasis, including genital psoriasis and inverse psoriasis. Genital psoriasis can develop directly on the vulva. Inverse psoriasis can only form in the skin folds around the groin, thighs, and buttocks.

Both types usually appear as smooth red spots. They do not cause the thick white scales seen in other types of psoriasis.

How to treat it

If you suspect psoriasis, see a dermatologist or other doctor. You may be prescribed a prescription steroid cream to relieve itching and discomfort.

Your doctor may also recommend light therapy, a common procedure that uses special ultraviolet rays to treat the skin.

8. Lichen planus

Lichen planus inflammatory disease affecting:

• skin
• hair
• mucous membranes more often on other parts of the body, such as the mouth and on the joints, elbows and ankles, lichen planus can also affect the vagina and vulva.

  Symptoms on the vulva or vagina may include:

  • itching
  • lacy, white rash or white streaks
  • painful sores, blisters or scabs
  • purple, straight bumps
  • pain with penetration

  How to treat it

  You may be able to simplify your systems:

  • soaking in an oatmeal bath to relieve itching
  • applying a cold compress to relieve pain and reduce inflammation
  • using an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching, irritation, and redness
  • taking an over-the-counter antihistamine to relieve itching and reduce inflammation

  Mild cases of lichen planus According to the Mayo Clinic, exposure to the skin can be cleared up in a few years. If the vaginal mucosa is affected, treatment may be more difficult.

  If your symptoms are not being treated with simple home remedies, make an appointment with your doctor.

  They may prescribe one or more of the following:

  • topical estrogen cream
  • topical, oral, or injectable corticosteroids
  • topical or oral immune response drugs
  • topical or oral retinoids

  902 71 UV therapy

  9. Perimenopause or menopause

  perimenopause is the time that leads to menopause. Menopause begins when you do not have a period longer than one year.

  perimenopause usually occurs in the mid to late 40s. During this time, your body produces less estrogen.

  As estrogen levels fall, the vaginal mucosa becomes thinner and less flexible. You also produce less vaginal discharge, which can lead to uncomfortable dryness.

  As the skin in the vagina changes, friction, sexual activity and chemicals in products can irritate the skin.

  How to treat it

  If you haven’t already, consider using an over-the-counter vaginal moisturizer or lubricant.

  Vaginal Moisturizers provide a permanent moisturizing effect and help the vaginal tissues retain moisture.

  Water or silicone based lubricants can be applied before masturbation, foreplay and sex to reduce friction and discomfort.

  If these over-the-counter drugs don’t work or you have other troublesome symptoms, see your doctor.

  They may recommend low-dose estrogen vaginal therapy, such as a cream or vaginal ring. These foods improve tissue thickness and elasticity and increase blood flow.

  Hormone replacement therapy may be an option.

  10. Lichen sclerosis

  Lichen sclerenus causes small patches of shiny white skin. Although these spots can appear anywhere on the body, they are most common in the genital and anus areas.

  According to the Mayo Clinic, it may be more likely to develop lichen sclerosus after reaching menopause.

  Other symptoms may include:

  • itching
  • pain or tenderness
  • patchy, wrinkled patches
  • easy bruising or skin tears
  • lesions that bleed or blister

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  How to treat it

  You may be able to simplify your systems:

  • soak in oatmeal bath to relieve itching
  • sitz bath soak to relieve pain and itching
  • apply a cold compress to relieve pain and reduce inflammation
  • apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching, irritation and redness
  • apply a vaginal moisturizer to protect the skin
  • applying lubricant before sex to reduce friction and irritation
  • taking over-the-counter antihistamines to relieve itching and reduce inflammation

  If symptoms cannot be treated with simple home remedies, make an appointment with your doctor. They may recommend a prescription steroid cream to relieve itching and discomfort.

  11.

  VIN

  Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), also known as dysplasia, is the result of changes in the skin cells that cover the vulva. These changes range from minor to major.

  VIN is a precancerous condition. Although it is not cancer, if the changes become more severe, vulvar cancer may take several years to develop.

  Symptoms may include:

  • itching
  • burning, tingling or pain
  • changes in appearance such as redness or white, colored skin
  • slight raised skin lesions that may look like moles or freckles

  902 71 pain in time of sexual intercourse

  How to treat it

  Treatment options vary depending on:

  • how skin cells have changed
  • size of affected area0272
  • estimated cancer risk

  Treatment may include:

  • topical steroid creams to treat inflammation
  • removal of abnormal cells with topical chemotherapy cream
  • treatment of affected areas with laser therapy
  • surgery to remove areas of abnormal cells
  • vulvectomy , which removes the entire vulva and is a rare procedure used only when the affected areas are very large.

  Regular visits are recommended as VIN may recur after treatment.

  12. vulvar cancer

  Vulvar cancer is caused by the growth of abnormal tissue cells in the vulva. It usually occurs on the outer lips of the vagina, but may affect other areas of the vulva, especially as the cellular abnormality spreads.

  This type of hand often spreads slowly. Usually begins with intraepithelial neoplasia of the vulva. Without treatment, tissue cell damage can develop into cancer.

  Symptoms include:

  • unusual bleeding
  • vulvar itching
  • skin discoloration
  • painful urination
  • vulvar pain and tenderness
  • vulvar swelling, like lumps or warts

  How to treat it

  Cancer of the vulva is usually treated after consultation with a specialist in oncology.

  Treatments vary according to the severity and extent of the cancer, but generally fall into four categories:

  • Laser therapy.