Vulval Care

Vulval skin is very delicate and can easily become inflamed and irritated. There are a lot of products marketed as being for vulval care but these can cause problems so I recommend that you stay away from these. This is a guide to vulval care so that you can avoid some of the common irritants. Of course, you should always seek medical advice if your vulva is sore or irritated because some vulval conditions can be serious and it is important to make sure that there isn’t an infection that also needs to be treated.

All vulval structures shown here are prone to irritation if not cared for.

The following are the steps I recommend to keep your vulva healthy:

• Use natural fibre underwear and sanitary products.

• Wash with sorbolene or soap free wash only.

• Dab gently after a shower, avoid rubbing.

• Avoid tight clothing including panty hose.

• Wipe from front to back when using the toilet.

• If you have difficulty cleaning after using your bowels, have a quick shower.

• Never use talcum powder.

• Use sensitive clothes wash for underwear.

• Use water soluble lubricants or Olive and Bee cream if needed.

• Avoid condoms with latex.

• Wash immediately after exercise or swimming.

• Consider using tampons or a menstrual cup if irritated by menstrual blood.

I hope that this helps and please remember to seek medical help if you have vulval irritation.