What is vulvar dermatitis?

Vulvar dermatitis is a skin condition that causes itching, irritation, and inflammation of the outside area surrounding your vagina (vulva) - including your clitoris and labia. Your vagina and anus are inside your body so are not part of the vulval area.

What are the symptoms of vulvar dermatitis?

Common signs of vulvar dermatitis include dry skin, itching, burning, and the appearance of a red rash.

Dr Sophie Momen, Consultant Dermatologist, Cadogan Clinic, London says that vulvar dermatitis can impact your quality of life, causing discomfort and sometimes embarrassment if affecting intimate relationships.

"The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) and the National Eczema Society (NES) have excellent informative resources, including local and national support groups," she says. "However, it's important to have any symptoms assessed by a healthcare professional.

Any rash or lump and bump that does not go away - either on its own or after a course of prescribed treatment - may suggest a more serious underlying condition."

What causes vulvar dermatitis?

Vulvar dermatitis may be caused by vulvar eczema (atopic dermatitis) or contact dermatitis.

Momen explains that if your vulvar dermatitis is caused by vulvar eczema, you may have a history of eczema in other areas of your body.

"You may also have had other atopic diseases, such as hay fever, allergies and rhinitis - a condition where your nose becomes inflamed by something you're allergic to," says Momen. "If it is due to an allergy, then you may not have had eczema previously."

According to Momen, vulval skin is sensitive and can be irritated easily by certain irritants, allergens and products.

How is vulvar dermatitis treated?

Treating vulvar dermatitis depends on the underlying cause.

Momen explains that for cases where vulvar eczema is the cause, then your doctor may prescribe an emollient and a steroid ointment.

She adds that it's important to receive an accurate diagnosis so your doctor can rule out other causes of vulva rashes - such as psoriasis, lichen planus or lichen sclerosus.

"They will need to take a full detailed history and examination," says Momen. "You will be asked about conditions that run in your family, your lifestyle and how you care for your skin in this area."

In some cases, you may be referred to a specialist as patch testing may be needed to rule out an allergic component. A sample of your skin (biopsy) may also be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

If your vulvar dermatitis is due to an allergy, then avoiding the allergen will hopefully ease your symptoms.

Momen says that treating the affected area will involve avoiding any substances that you are allergic to, or that may irritate the skin.

How can vulvar dermatitis be prevented?

Completely preventing flare-ups of vulvar dermatitis can be challenging. However, if your condition is triggered by an allergy, following the recommended lifestyle changes and avoiding known allergens or irritants can significantly lower your chance of developing - or redeveloping - it.

"Washing your vaginal area once a day is enough," she says. "It's better to keep things simple and to wash with water and a soap substitute - such as epaderm ointment. Avoid any soaps, cosmetics, wipes, perfumes, deodorants or hygiene products in this delicate genital area."