Vulvar dermatitis describes itchy, tender skin in the area around the vagina. The condition can occur due to moisture, heat, allergic reactions, or skin conditions, such as eczema.

The vulva is the outer portion of the female genitals. This includes the outer labia majora, inner labia minora, the external part of the clitoris, and the vaginal and urethral opening. Vulvar dermatitis could affect any of these areas.

This article explains what vulvar dermatitis is and how to treat it.

A note about sex and gender

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Learn more.

Half a grapefruit with the appearance of a vulva.Share on Pinterest
Yaroslav Danylchenko/Stocksy

Vulvar dermatitis occurs when the vulva, or the folds of skin around the vagina, become irritated, itchy, and inflamed. Doctors may also refer to this inflammation as vulvitis.

The symptoms of vulvar dermatitis can include:

  • itchiness
  • burning, stinging, or pain
  • tenderness or swelling
  • pain or discomfort during sex

According to a 2021 review of previous research, vulvar itchiness is often the result of contact dermatitis.

Contact dermatitis occurs when a person’s skin reacts to something that it touches, resulting in irritation. It is a type of eczema.

There are two main types of contact dermatitis:

Irritant contact dermatitis

Irritant contact dermatitis occurs when something injures or irritates the outer layer of a person’s skin. For example, this could occur due to:

  • excessive washing
  • scrubbing or friction, such as during sexual intercourse
  • moisture, including sweat, vaginal discharge, or water from the sea or swimming pools
  • personal care products, such as soaps, bubble baths, or wipes
  • laundry detergents
  • tight-fitting clothes
  • washcloths or towels

Allergic contact dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis occurs following exposure to a substance that someone is allergic to.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), there are more than 15,000 known allergens that can trigger a reaction. Some potential allergens that come into contact with the vulva include:

It is important to note that people can develop allergies spontaneously, even if they have used the item for years.

The dermatitis may appear suddenly, or worsen over time with repeated exposure.

Other causes

Other causes of vulvar itchiness include:

Some of these conditions can be serious or get worse over time. A person experiencing symptoms that do not improve should contact a doctor.

To diagnose vulvar dermatitis, a doctor will ask about a person’s symptoms. They will also need to perform a pelvic examination.

To determine the root cause of the dermatitis, a doctor may also:

  • assess the person’s medical history
  • taking urine or vaginal discharge samples
  • perform patch testing to identify allergies

In some cases, if a doctor suspects suspicious skin changes, they may also perform a biopsy to look for cancerous cells.

Treatment for vulvar dermatitis depends on the cause, which is why it is important for people to get a diagnosis from a doctor.

While over-the-counter (OTC) treatments may help with some causes, they may have little effect on others.

Some examples of treatments a doctor may recommend include:

  • stopping scratching the skin
  • identifying the potential irritant or allergen that is causing the problem
  • avoiding the trigger, wherever possible

For contact dermatitis, this may be all a person needs to allow the skin to heal. Additional treatments that may relieve symptoms include:

  • petroleum jelly, which people can apply to the skin after washing to reduce irritation and friction
  • anti-itch creams that are safe to use around the vulva
  • medications to reduce pain or swelling, in severe cases

For other causes of vulvar itchiness, treatment options may include:

  • corticosteroid creams
  • antifungal or antibiotic medication, for infections
  • estrogen creams or medication, for GSM
  • medication to treat lice

Some at-home strategies that may reduce the symptoms of contact dermatitis include:

  • avoiding what is causing the rash
  • applying a cold compress to soothe itchiness for 10 to 15 minutes a day
  • applying an ice pack wrapped in a clean towel or cloth to the area
  • oatmeal baths, which involve adding colloidal oatmeal to warm water
  • wearing soft, comfortable clothing that consists of natural fibers, such as cotton

These remedies may not cure the condition, but they could help with managing the symptoms while the skin heals.

The following self-care and hygiene measures could also reduce the risk of vulvar dermatitis:

Do:

  • gently wash the vulva with water every day
  • pat dry with a clean towel
  • wear cotton underwear
  • use unscented toilet paper
  • use fragrance-free sanitary pads that have a cotton liner during periods

Do not:

  • scrub the vulva
  • use harsh soaps or scented products
  • put lotions, oils, talcum powders, sprays, or perfume on the vulva
  • wear synthetic fabrics around the vulva, including pantyhose, unless they have a cotton gusset
  • use menstrual products that contain deodorant, fragrance, or have plastic coatings
  • douche

People who remove their pubic hair may also want to refrain from removing pubic hair with razors, creams, or wax if they have any irritation.

Contact dermatitis is not contagious, so a person cannot transmit it to someone else. However, engaging in sexual activities could worsen the symptoms.

A person with vulvar dermatitis should give their body time to heal before becoming intimate.

People who decide to have sex during a flare-up may benefit from:

  • using unscented lubricants for sensitive skin
  • avoiding condoms that contain spermicide, that are scented, that contain flavorings
  • using latex-free condoms
  • washing the vulva gently afterward with water

Some people also use oil-based lubricants, as they can be good for dry skin. However, it is important to note that both oils and petroleum can make latex and polyisoprene condoms more likely to break. Only use oil or petroleum with nitrile or polyurethane condoms.

Persistent symptoms may require an evaluation from a healthcare professional.

Many cases of vulvar dermatitis can improve with time and treatment. However, if the symptoms do not improve or they become severe, it is essential to seek medical advice.

Contact a doctor right away if a person develops:

  • increased swelling, pain, or warmth around the vulva
  • pus or unpleasant-smelling discharge
  • changes in vaginal discharge, such as a change in color or consistency
  • burning or pain during urination
  • fever or chills
  • a lump that does not heal, or gets bigger

Vulvar dermatitis is a condition that causes irritated, itchy skin around the vagina. The condition is often the result of contact dermatitis, which is a type of eczema.

Other potential causes of dryness and itchiness around the vulva include atopic dermatitis, infections, and hormonal changes during menopause.

While limiting exposure to potential irritants and relieving itching at home can be helpful, people experiencing prolonged or severe vulvar itchiness should contact a healthcare professional.

Doing so can help determine the cause of the symptoms, and helps doctors create an appropriate treatment plan.