tips for vulvar skin care

[Guest guest]

These tips are from Dr. Libby who is a Dermatologist down in Charlotte, NC who treats Vulvar pain patients. These irritants are not causing your symptoms, but they could be making them worse. As a woman with a history of vulvar symptoms, you should follow these guidelines to prevent flares -- even when you are feeling well. After your symptoms are under control, you can restart any habits that are important to you... ~Wash the vulva no more than once a day, using water only; do not use a washcloth but only soft fingertips. ~Avoid soap, douches, powders, over the counter medications (especially Vagisil) on this area. ~If any topical medications produce burning, stop using them and call your provider. ~Do not use panty liners, especially the brand

"Always." ~With periods, use tampons rather than pads if possible. ~Prevent constipation by adding fiber to your diet; an easy solution is one or two large helpings of a very high fiber cereal such as All Bran or All Bran Extra, with large amounts of fluid. If necessary, use a psyllium product such as Metamucil with several large glasses of fluid daily. ~Apply ice, frozen peas or a frozen blue gel pack (lunch box size) wrapped in a hand towel to relieve burning. But, be careful not to overdo, since frostbite is a real possibility. ~Use a lubricant with sexual activity. Women with vaginal symptoms tent to be dry. (isn't that the truth, Chelle) Astroglide, Slippery Stuff, or vegetable oil (not K-Y) are good choices for a lubricant. (I personally like Femglide and have used Olive Oil in the past...some use

Crisco...Chelle). ~Try applying A LOT of topical anesthetic (Xylocaine, lidocaine - NOT vagisil) 30 minutes before sexual activity if sexual activity is painful for you. ~Contraceptive creams or spermicides, and latex condoms can be irritating.