Vaginal Rash: Here’s What's Causing it!
Imagine waking up and seeing a rash around your vagina. This sight might look quite alarming at first. Given that it's a sensitive region, irritation is bound to happen. But before your mind races in different directions, let us tell you that vagina rash can be treated. However, for that, you must be aware of the causes of a rash on the vaginal area or on the vulva.
Another important facet of this issue is that you should seek medical help if the rash causes any discomfort. Thus, to help you out, we’ve lined up the symptoms, causes and vaginal rash treatment. So, keep on reading to learn more!
Common Vaginal Rash Symptoms
Experiencing an itch down there is one of the very first telltale signs of the vaginal rash. However, that’s not it. There are a few additional symptoms indicating a rash around your vagina. They are:
1. Inflammation
2. Blisters or bumps
3. Burning sensation
4. Vaginal discharge
5. Vaginal odour
6. Pain while urinating or having an intercourse
7. Pain in the pelvic region
Causes Of Vaginal Rash
There are plenty of reasons that are associated with the vaginal rash. Here are the most common ones to watch out for:
1. Bacterial vaginosis
This is an infection caused in the vagina due to an imbalance of the bacteria in your vagina. This usually occurs when you douche, use scented soaps or opt for bubble baths.Symptoms
Grey or thin white vaginal discharge
Foul odour while having an intercourse
Burning sensation while urinating
Pain or itching around the vagina
Treatment: This type of infection can be treated with prescribed antibiotics or antibacterial cream. It’s essential that you get it checked by a doctor.
2. Yeast Infection
Vaginal yeast infection rash is caused due to the fungus Candida albicans. Usually, this fungus is already there in your vagina. But due to some factors, this fungus overgrows, resulting in a vaginal yeast infection rash.Symptoms:
White cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge
Pain while urinating and having an intercourse
Itching around the vagina
Treatment: Over-the-counter (OTC) or prescribed antifungal creams can treat vaginal yeast infection rash. Visiting a doctor is essential.
3. Molluscum contagiosum
This is a virus that causes skin infection, rash or predominately bumps on the vaginal area. It’s a contagious condition that can spread through direct contact, i.e, even by having an intercourse with the infected person.Symptoms:
Round, red bumps which are around 2 and 5 millimetres in diameter
At the beginning, they are flesh-coloured
Over time they become red
Itching
Treatment: Usually, the bumps disappear over time but for others, an outpatient procedure can prove to be beneficial.
4. Scabies
Experiencing intense itching down there, chances are you are infected with scabies. It’s a result of the mite Sarcoptes scabiei that burrow in your skin and lay eggs. This condition causes red bumps and intense itching. It can spread through sexual intercourse or even by sharing infected materials like towels or clothing.Symptoms:
Small red bumps
Intense itching
Sore skin
Treatment: Prescribed medicine can easily help you treat this condition. Also, remember to wash your clothes and bedding to avoid any further infections.
5. Contact dermatitis
This is one of the most common reasons for experiencing a vaginal rash. It’s caused when your skin comes in contact with harsh cleansing or skin products.Symptoms:
Itching and burning
Swelling and redness
Pain while urinating and while inserting a tampon
Treatment: For mild cases, topical steroids can help. In severe cases, your doctor might give you injections.
6. Genital herpes
Caused due to the herpes simplex virus, this sexually transmitted infection showcases few to no symptoms. For many people, this STI tends to remain undetected for years. A genital herpes rash is much more than just a rash. Rather, they are a bunch of small blisters that appear three to four days after getting infected.Symptoms:
Small blisters around vagina, anus and buttocks
Inflamed vulva
Fever
Headache
Muscle pain
Treatment: Herpes can’t be treated. However, your doctor can help you with some medications to ease the discomfort caused by the bumps.
7. Syphilis
It’s a sexually transmitted infection caused due to the bacteria Treponema pallidum. It consists of four stages out of which in the second one (secondary syphilis), one can notice red vaginal rash. It starts with red, round sores which are painless yet contagious.Symptoms:
Red rash
Hair loss
Swollen lymph nodes
Fever
Fatigue
Body ache
Treatment: At the initial stages, this condition can be treated with antibiotics. To avoid complications, you should get it checked by the doctor at the earliest.
8. Genital warts
It’s a common STI that is highly contagious. It’s caused by some types of human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts appear in clusters in different parts of your body like your mouth, throat and even in the anus.Symptoms:
Warts which are flesh-coloured or purple, grey or brown
Flat thickened lesions
A cluster of bumps
Treatment: Prescribed ointments and creams as suggested by your doctor can treat genital warts. In severe cases, surgical treatments can be performed to remove warts.
Apart from these reasons, rash on the vaginal area or on the vulva can be caused by pubic lice, psoriasis, eczema or vulva ulcers. Visiting a doctor immediately is the only way to treat these conditions.
At Home Vaginal Rash Treatment
While you head to your doctor and get the right treatment for rash on vaginal lips, here are a few things that you can do to calm the itch:
- Get rid of anything that may be causing you skin irritation. This includes soaps, detergents, perfumes or creams.
- Use high-quality tampons and sanitary pads. Try out the ALWAYS Tampax Cardboard Tampons which has an innovative absorbent core and protective skirt, both of which minimises the risk of leakage. Further, its anti-slip grip provides an easy insertion. For sanitary pads users, the ALWAYS Maxi Thick Pads are equipped with unique anti-leakage barriers to avoid any leakage. Additionally, its extra absorbent core soaks the menstrual discharge with ease and keeps you dry and fresh.
- Avoid douching.
- Use a cold compress to soothe the itching vaginal rash.
- Studies suggest that having yoghurt can keep you away from vaginal yeast infection rash. Remember you don’t need to apply yoghurt down there, simply add it in your diet. However, make sure to consult your doctor first before you make any dietary changes.
- Use protection while having intercourse.
Takeaway
Vaginal pain can be mild or severe, temporary or chronic. Either way, you need to visit a doctor and explain to him the symptoms that you are facing. Don’t hesitate while you talk about your vaginal health. You shouldn’t bear the pain alone! Every woman deserves a happy and healthy vagina.
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FAQs
1. What does a vaginal yeast infection rash look like?
A vaginal yeast infection rash looks red, sharp with scalloped edges.
2. What STD can cause a skin rash?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) like secondary syphilis, genital warts and genital herpes are the ones that can cause a rash around the vagina.
3. How long does it take for a vaginal rash to clear up?
In mild cases, after the right treatment, the vaginal rash clears up in two to three weeks. If it persists, it’s essential that you visit a doctor once again.
Disclaimer
Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; Always pads prioritize safety, protection and comfort of its consumers.