Medically reviewed by Mary Rani Cadiz, MD · Obstetrics and Gynecology
You may find that your vagina or the area surrounding it is itchy and irritated. This may make you feel anxious as your vagina is a sensitive area, and a healthy vagina should not itch.
Rashes on the vulva and in the vagina have various causes. In this article we will list down some possible causes of rashes on the vulva, the genital area outside, including the labia and vaginal opening, and in the vagina, which is found inside.
Below are the possible rashes on the vulva and vagina causes:
One of the possible vaginal rash causes is vaginitis. Vaginitis Is the term we use to refer to disorders of the vagina caused by a change in the normal vaginal flora, infection, or inflammation. Along with itchiness or rash, other symptoms may include:
There are many types of vaginitis. Some of these are bacterial vaginosis (an overgrowth of bacteria inside the vagina), yeast infections (a type of yeast growing in the vagina), and trichomoniasis (a parasite transmitted through intercourse).
Reduced estrogen levels (usually in menopausal women), foreign bodies, such as condom or tampons, allergens and irritants (douches, washes, etc.), and skin disorders may also be a cause for vaginitis.
Treatment for vaginitis will depend primarily on the type.
Immediately consult a doctor if you develop unusual vaginal discomfort coupled with these symptoms:
A common condition that causes white, patchy skin to appear usually in the anogenital area. The affected skin looks thinner than normal. While this condition can occur anywhere in the body, it is commonly found around or near the genital or anal area. It is possible for anyone to contract lichen sclerosus. However the risk for postmenopausal women are high compared to other demographics. Lichen sclerosus is one of the rarer causes of rashes on the vulva and rarely, in the vagina.
Some symptoms of lichen sclerosus include.
The causes for lichen sclerosus is unknown. Doctors suspect that lichen sclerosus may have something to do with your immune system.
Contact dermatitis may happen if the genital area comes into contact with substances that can cause irritation or an allergic reaction. Products such as soaps, feminine washes, lotions, or perfumes may be the cause of contact dermatitis in the vulva.
Contact dermatitis in the vagina occurs because the woman has an allergy to latex condoms.
A skin condition that starts with itchy patches of skin, Lichen simplex chronicus, a common form of neurodermatitis, may be one of the causes of rashes on the vulva and vagina.. Scratching these patches may cause these areas to become itchier. Hence, the itch-scratch cycle ensues causing damage to the sensitive vulvovaginal skin.
Chronic neurodermatitis causes the affected area to be leathery and thick due to chronic friction caused by scratching. While it is not life threatening and not contagious, it may cause major discomfort. Here are some signs that you may have neurodermatitis:
You might want to seek medical attention if neurodermatitis prevents you from living your life normally without distractions. This is usually associated with emotional triggers and stressors such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Finally, be mindful as constant scratching of the affected area may lead to a wound, infection, and further complications.
Psoriasis is a common disease of the skin that can affect any area, including your genitals and anus. Cells build up on the skin surface due to a speeded up life cycle.This excess of skin can be itchy and painful. Here are some symptoms of psoriasis:
While there is no direct cure for psoriasis, it is still possible to manage and moderate its condition.
A common viral skin infection, molluscom contagiosum caues patches of small red shiny bumps to appear in your skin, including the pubic area. Adults with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to contracting the disease. It can be transmitted sexually. You may also catch the infection if your genitals come into contact with objects that contain the virus, such as towels, seat covers, or underwear.
Possible symptoms include bumps on the skin that:
If you notice that your bumps fit the descriptions above, be careful in removing them. Scratching or removing these bumps may spread the virus to other parts of your body or to other people. This condition is self-limited, meaning it goes away by itself and isn’t dangerous.
Scabies is a skin condition caused by a mite or parasite that is burrowing underneath your skin. The itchiness occurs where the mite is burrowing.
Here are some symptoms that indicate you might have scabies:
Scabies is highly contagious and should be treated immediately.
Sexually Transmitted Infections can also be the cause for your vaginal rash. Experiencing redness, irritation, inflammation, and itching in the genital area may be indicative of herpes and syphilis.
Treatment for vaginal rash may depend on the disease or infection you are experiencing. Consult with a doctor to receive the correct treatment. Your doctor may prescribe topical or oral medication depending on your condition.
Here are some good ways to avoid vaginal rash
If you have any questions, please consult with your doctor to better understand the best solution for you.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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