Vulvar Skin Conditions

What is the vulva?

The vulva is the external part of the female genitalia, surrounding the vaginal opening. It includes the labia (inner and outer lips) and the clitoris.

Symptoms of Vulvar Skin Conditions

Many women experience symptoms at any age, including:

• Itching
• Pain or burning sensation
• Changes in skin color or texture

These symptoms may result from a condition affecting only the vulva or indicate a more general medical issue or skin disease. Symptoms can worsen due to:

• Moisture, heat, friction
• Scented products or deodorants

When to See a Doctor?

If you have persistent symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

What to Expect During a Medical Visit?

The doctor will ask about:

• Yoursymptoms and their severity.
• Anyother affected areas on your body.
• Medications, creams, or treatmentsyou’ve used.
• Yourpersonal and family medical history.
• Possibleallergic reactions to soaps, detergents, or hygiene products.

Some vulvar conditions can affect sexual intercourse, which may be distressing. Your doctor may ask personal questions to better understand your condition and suggest the right treatment.

Diagnostic Tests

• Blood tests & swabsto check for infections.
• Skin biopsy– If symptoms persist or the diagnosis is unclear, a small tissue sample may be taken for examination.
• Allergy tests– If an allergic reaction is suspected.

Biopsies are usually performed under local anesthesia to numb the area.

Common Vulvar Skin Conditions

Lichen Sclerosus

• Most commonafter menopause.
• Related toimmune system dysfunction.
• Not linked tohormonal contraceptives or HRT.

Lichen Planus

• Causespain rather than itching.
• Can affectother parts of the body, such as the mouth.

Vulvar Dermatitis (Simplex Lichen Planus)

• Occurs in women withsensitive skin, eczema, or dermatitis
• Can extend to theinner thighs and pubic area.
• Stress and chemicalscan worsen symptoms.

Vulvar Atrophy

• Due to low estrogen levels, especially after menopause.
• Can cause itching, dryness, and pain.

Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN)

• Pre-cancerous changesin the vulva.
• Diagnosedvia biopsy.
• Similar tocervical pre-cancerous lesions.
• Women withlichen sclerosus are at higher risk.

Candida Infection (Yeast Infection)

• Causesirritation, burning, and pain.
• Not always accompanied by vaginal discharge.
• Can be transmittedsexually – partners may need treatment.

Psoriasis

• Causesdryness and thickened skin.
• May also affect thescalp, nails, and other body areas

With the exception of Candida, these conditions are NOT contagious and cannot be transmitted sexually.

Treatment Options

• Avoid irritants– Use soap substitutes and moisturizers
• Antihistamines– Help relieve itching (especially at night
• Steroid creams– Used for Lichen Sclerosus and Lichen Planus
• Estrogen cream– Helps with vulvar atrophy
• Antifungal treatment– For Candida (Yeast Infections).
• Surgical removal– Recommended for VIN lesions.

Vulvar Care Tips

Washing

• Use mild, unscented cleansersor soap substitutes.
• Avoid excessive washing– Once per day is enough.
• Use a soft towelto pat dry the area.
• No antiseptics or sponges– These can irritate the skin.

Clothing

• Wear loose cotton or silk underwear.
• Avoid synthetic fabrics and tight clothes (leggings, tights, tight jeans).
• At home, avoid underwear and let the skin breathe
• Sleep without underwear.

 Avoid Irritants

• No scented soaps, perfumes, bath products, or exfoliants.
• Be cautious with over-the-counter creams (e.g., tea tree oil, aloe vera)
• Keep nails short to avoid scratching the skin.

 Moisturizing

• Apply fragrance-free moisturizers regularlyto prevent dryness.
• Cold creams or ointments(stored in the refrigerator) can soothe irritation.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

• Regular self-examinations– Check for changes in color, texture, or new symptoms.
• Follow-up with a gynecologistif symptoms persist.
• Annual screeningsif diagnosed with lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, or VIN.

The Thely Clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating vulvar skin conditions, providing personalized care for every patient.