Rash on vulva/anus that has been irritated for 2 months

I'm so sorry to hear you are experiencing similar symptoms.

It only burns when I am working out or running, but it does itch if it gets too dry.

I have not considered being allergic to toilet paper- is that a common allergy?

Hi, it's more common than you think. Toilet paper can contain perfumes and also chemicals as bleach and formaldehyde. The same chemicals are in pads and Tampons. I suggest you have a look at the brand to use. You can become allergic very randomly at any time.

In my case, I have stopped using toilet paper completely. It's been a week now so I need to be patient to see results. It burns like hell. I think the Covid vaccines triggered this allergy. I have the same irritation with my antiperspirant that I've been using for many years.

In your case, it definitely feels like a contact dermatitis caused by an irritant . Like Mariah said, you have to question everything... tissue of your panties, the soap, shampoo, moisturiser, and shaving product. Avoid everything with perfume and fragrance. Only anti-allergic product. The genitals skin is more sensitive than the rest of your body. You can experience reactions there that you wouldn't have on your hands with the same product. Contact dermatitis can take 4 weeks to heal so you have to be patient when you investigate.

thank you! i will definitely try removing all fragrance products. i also finally took the time to look at my vulva and now im scared the rash may be herpes or HPV or something! do you ever get little "bumps"?

Hi, we look so similar! At the beginning, I used to have small red spots/pimple but they would disappear within 1-2 days. I believe they are part of the dermatitis symptoms when there's too much friction. Avoid wearing panties if you can and wear loose clothing. Make sure your toilet paper in unscented. Same for pads. They are full of chemicals. Stop shaving until you are feeling better.

Contact dermatitis are the worst because you have to find the irritant but the skin takes so much time to heal (1-4 weeks), you won't notice any improvement right away. Personally, I avoid soap completely. Avoid shampoo pouring in this area when you rinse yourself. You can use a topical steroid (not too strong) and moisturiser to help with inflammation.

Here's the most helpful article I have found. I'm being followed by a dermatologist too.

https://www.mydr.com.au/vulval-problems-a-self-help-guide/

Thank you so so much for your reply. I am so sorry you are also experiencing the same symptoms ( I wouldn't wish this on anyone) but it is also comforting to hear I am not alone.

Thank you! I am trying to think- and I can't really pick out one irritant that changes with the seasons. I read online that even a pollen allergy could cause something like this. I may try switching to fragrance free everything (including detergent) and keeping track of what I eat.