Vulva Itching and Burning May be More than a Yeast Infection

Does it occur around my cycle? Before, during, or after?
- The pH of the vagina can change around your cycle and give you discomfort that is not necessarily caused by yeast.
Am I constipated? Am I having loose stool?
- If your stool consistency is off and/or there is straining, it can affect the pelvic floor muscles and cause similar vulvar symptoms.
Did I try a new body product or detergent that I am sensitive to?
- Certain chemicals in products can affect vaginal flora.

Eczema is a common problem at the vulva and is often hard to diagnose. Eczema can start with exposure to an allergen or irritant, making it is important to know the ingredients in your skin care products, detergents, soaps, underwear and pant fabrics, lubricants, condoms etc. It is important to eliminate the allergen, seek proper treatment and do your best to not itch the vulva area. Applying an ice pack can be an effective, natural analgesic to stop the itching while the eczema is treated.
Lichens Sclerosis is an inflammatory skin condition that can affect the vulvar and anal area. It is especially common in those with psoriasis. Lichens Sclerosis is diagnosed by appearance and sometimes a biopsy. It needs to be treated to avoid changes in the vulvar tissues such as labia and/or clitoris scarring. Tissue should be inspected regularly to attend to new lesions or severe scarring
Lichen Planus is caused by an overactive immune system and can be seen on the vulva, inside the mouth and other skin surfaces. The most common symptoms on vulvar skin are burning, itching and rawness as well as change in color of the vulva to a pale, pink and white streaky pattern. It may be accompanied by a yellow discharge. There is a possibility of labia scarring so it requires treatment and ongoing inspection.

Wear loose clothing, cotton underwear when you go out and none when you are home.
Do not wash area with a washcloth, use your fingers with an unscented, non- alkaline cleanser (Cetaphil or just warm water)
Soak the vulva for 5-10 minutes with lukewarm water, pat dry and then apply prescribed medication or soothing substance being used. We recommend (good clean love).
Avoid moisturizing wipes that can irritate skin. If you feel like you need more moisture, use a spray bottle to moisten the tissue. Hyaluronic Acid also helps to put moisture back into the vulvar tissue such as Hyalogyn
Talk to your gynecologist before using oils. Many women use coconut oil but a safer oil may be grape-seed oil due to its ingredients and interaction with vulvar tissue.
Use a vaginal probiotic that has certain ingredients to replenish the microbiome of the vagina. We like these suppository probiotics.