The health information provided on emmagoldman.com is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Nothing stated by this website or linked pages should be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you have an urgent medical problem call 911 immediately or contact your healthcare provider.

Many of the following causes can cause anything from minor vulvar irritation to infections. Following these hints can help improve your vulvar health.

Cause: Heat and moisture to the vulvar area
What to do:

• Avoid sitting for long periods of time reading, watching TV, or using a computer
• Don't wear underpants to bed
• Avoid tight and synthetic clothing (panty hose, tights, etc.)
• Don't sit for long time periods in damp exercise clothing or swim wear

Cause: Chemicals in the vulvar area
What to do:

• Never use soap on the vulvar area
• Never douche
• Use a mild enzyme-free laundry soap such as Dreft or Ivory Snow
• Don't use fabric softeners
• Wear white cotton, not dyed or synthetic, underpants

Cause: Anything that makes the vulva or vagina less acidic than it normally is
What to do:

• Blood (i.e. from menstrual periods) is neutral so it makes the vagina and vulva less acidic. Both tampons and pads contribute to vaginal or vulvar irritation or infection, but they must be used
• Always use condoms. Seminal fluid is alkaline so markedly reduces the acidity of the vagina and vulvar area.
• Never douche. In addition to changing the acid/base balance, you can force unsterile liquid into the sterile uterus, causing a serious infection

Cause: Anything that irritates the vulva
What to do:

• Don't wipe with dry toilet paper; this is irritating to the genitals. After urinating or bowel movements, wet toilet paper and wipe the genitals front to back once. Repeat as needed. Then pat your vulva gently dry with dry toilet paper. Carry a small water bottle with you for bathrooms that have only stalls. Change water often.
• Use only white, unscented toilet paper. Avoid scented products
• Avoid all bubble baths, bath salts, and scented oils. You may apply natural oils such as Keri Oil to damp skin after getting out of the tub or shower. However, do not apply oils or soaps directly to the vulva.
• Do not scrub vulvar skin with a washcloth - just use your hand.
• Pat dry gently with a towel - do not rub. Use a hairdryer on a cool setting to dry genitals when skin is sore or tender to the touch.
• Avoid all over the counter creams or ointments except Desitin or A&D ointment (for diaper rash). These ointments relieve vulvar irritation.
• The genital area should not be shaved. Shaving causes irritation and inflamed hair follicles and glands.
• Soaking in a bath tub of warm water (not hot) with 4 to 5 tablespoons of baking soda may sooth genital itching and burning. Soak 2 to 3 times a day for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Avoid using deodorized pads and tampons. Tampons are safe for most women, but wearing them too long, or when the flow of blood is light may result in vulvar irritation, vaginal infection, increased discharge, odor, or toxic shock syndrome (TSS). the symptoms of TSS include a fever of 102 or higher, a generally reddened or sunburn-type rash, and nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• If you have burning on urinating, spray or pour cool or lukewarm, water over the vulva during or after urinating
• Some women have problems with chronic dampness either from sweating or from vaginal mucus. Keeping dry is important. Whenever you are aware of moisture, go to the bathroom as soon as possible to wash your genitals and pat them dry. Carry extra undergarments with you so that you can change if they become moist. When at home, wear long skirts with no underpants. You can use a hairdryer on the cool setting to help dry your genitals.

Cause: Sexual Vaginal Penetration
What to do:

• Dryness during vaginal penetration may be helped by using a lubricant. They rinse away with water and will not increase your chances of infection. However, they may increase the risk of getting a urinary tract infection if they block the urethral opening.
• Water based products such as K-Y Jelly help alleviate any irritation. Reapply often during sexual activity as they do not last as long as oils.

Cause: Birth Control Methods
What to do:

• Hormonal birth control methods (pill, patch, ring, Depo) increase chances of getting genital irritation. You may have fewer problems with lower does hormones.
• Spermicides (jellies, creams, inserts, tablets, sponges, or films) may cause burning initially. Changing brands may help. Ask your health care practitioner or pharmacist. Spermicides also cause microscopic breaks in the skin that increase the chances of getting a sexually transmitted disease if you are exposed to it. Don't use spermicides if you or your partner have other sexual partners.

Revised 11-04 tm

The health information provided on emmagoldman.com is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Nothing stated by this website or linked pages should be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you have an urgent medical problem call 911 immediately or contact your healthcare provider.