Most women have experienced vulval discomfort and this can be due to many causes (e.g dryness, infection and also conditions like eczema, psoriasis, lichen sclerosis…etc). For each of the different causes, the specific management will vary however, these general vulval care tips are important to all:
Things To Avoid:
Soaps
Perfumes/ Fragrances
Femfresh and similar
Vaginal douching
Tight-fitting trousers
Things To Do:
Please use a soap substitute (e.g. dermol 500, hydromol ointment, cetraben wash…etc). You can also use soap substitutes as an emollient for the vulva after your bath/shower but do not insert it into the vagina. Avoid aqueous cream as it can affect the PH balance of the skin.
Wear 100% cotton under-wear: the bigger the better, to allow good ventilation! Avoid synthetic materials and dyes.
Be free at night! Have some underwear-free time if possible to allow fresh air to the vulval skin.
Vaginal dryness – This is a common symptom in menopausal women but can also occur breast-feeding women. Vaginal Moisturisers and/or oestrogen cream can be helpful.
Sexual Intercourse: Please use a lubricant when having sexual intercourse. Oil-based lubricants can be good but are not compatible with condoms
** Please kindly refrain from requesting personal medical advice in the comments section as we are not indemnified to provide advice to people who are not formally under our care and will not be able to respond to these comments. If you are in need of specialist advice, please book an appointment with our Menopause Specialist here. **