Information From Your Health Care Provider

PRURITUS VULVAE

Basic information

description

Pruritus vulvae is an acute or chronic itching of the skin around the vulva (the vaginal lips) and anus. It is not contagious. It often affects female adolescents and adults, especially after menopause.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Itching that may be severe and burning. The itching may be continuous or come and go.
Sensitivity and irritation in the genital area.
The skin may be dry.
Thin, white vaginal discharge (sometimes).
Discomfort during sexual intercourse.

causes

It may be a symptom of an infection or other health problem. It may develop without any known cause.

risk increases with

Skin disease, such as psoriasis or lichen planus.
Systemic disease, such as diabetes.
Atrophy and dryness caused by lack of estrogen.
Skin reaction to irritants such as toilet tissue, sanitary pads, soap, douches, deodorants, powders, perfume, and fabric.
Systemic allergies, including food allergies.
Disorder of the vagina or rectum, such as vaginitis or hemorrhoids.
Genital warts (human papilloma virus).
Vulvar cancer (rare).
Days prior to menstruation.
Hot, humid weather.
Obesity.
Lack of urinary or bowel control (incontinence).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific preventive measures. Obtain medical care for any underlying disorders to reduce risk factors.

expected outcomes

Treatment can help symptoms, but it may be long term.

possible complications

Secondary bacterial infection of the inflamed skin.
Pruritus may be chronic (persisting for a long time).

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Your health care provider will do an exam of the affected area and ask questions about your symptoms and activities. Medical tests may include study of vaginal discharge and, if needed, a biopsy of the vulva (removal of a small amount of tissue for viewing under a microscope). In some cases, the exact cause is not found.
Treatment for the underlying cause and topical skin-care products are usually recommended.
Avoid the irritants listed among the risk factors.
Wear cotton underpants rather than nylon or other synthetic material.
Keep the area as dry and cool as possible. Wear loose clothing. Don't douche.
Don't scratch the itchy area. Scratching will aggravate soreness and cause more irritation.
Wash the genital area with water and unscented soap or soap-free cleanser once a day.
Use a lubricant, such as K-Y Lubricating Jelly or petroleum jelly, during intercourse. Avoid intercourse if it is painful.
After urinating or having a bowel movement, clean the genital area gently with moist cotton or antiseptic wipes. Wipe from front to back (vagina to anus).
During menstruation, insert tampons carefully. Change sanitary napkins frequently.
Sit in bathtub of warm (tepid, not hot) water several times a day to help relieve itching.

medications

Drugs may be prescribed for any infection.
Use nonprescription steroid creams or ointments. Follow instructions on the label.
Stronger steroid creams or lotions, or hormone ointment may be prescribed.
Hormone therapy or topical application of estrogen is sometimes recommended for postmenopausal women.
Sedating antihistamines may be recommended to help in sleeping at night.

activity

Avoid excess sweating.

diet

Avoid foods that produce allergic reactions. Avoid caffeine beverages. Also avoid tomatoes and peanuts.

notify our office if

You or a family member has symptoms of pruritus vulvae.
Symptoms don't improve in 2 weeks, despite treatment or if scratching leads to skin infection.