What is vulvar eczema? What are its symptoms, treatment and prevention?

Eczema is a common skin condition that we all know. It causes irritation, burning sensation and redness of the skin and may spread to the area infected and to the other body parts. When it affects the vulva region, female genital parts, it is called vulvar eczema. Many women suffer in silence from annoying and distressing symptoms of vulvar eczema because of shame and embarrassment or because they believe that nothing can be done for this condition. However, we would like to tell you that vulvar eczema is a common condition and can be safely treated with the help of an Ayurvedic doctor. In this blog, we’re going to tell you more about vulvar eczema, what are its symptoms and treatment methods and how can you prevent it.

What is vulvar eczema?

Vulvar eczema, as the name suggests is an allergic reaction or infection of the vulva region. The vulva is the outer part of the female genitalia. It includes the opening of the vagina and the area surrounding it. When the allergic reaction or infection occurs the soft folds of the skin around the opening of the vagina turns red, painful and itchy. This can be sudden or get worse slowly with repeated exposure to the irritants (allergens) like –

1. Laundry detergents
2. Fabric softeners and dryer sheets
3. Perfumed bathing soaps, gels & lotions
4. Bubble bath
5. Vaginal deodorants & powders
6. Douches
7. Tampons, pads, panty liners, wipes
8. Contraceptive creams, jellies & foams
9. Nylon underwear or pantyhose
10. Spermicides or lubricants
11. Trapped sweat, such as when wearing tight clothes or after workouts

Vulvar eczema treatment

As with other types of eczema, a person infected with vulvar eczema requires medical help in treating the condition. In the case of mild cases, doctors usually prescribe topical corticosteroid creams and antihistamine medications to reduce itching. Overuse of steroid ointments may result in thinning of the skin in some cases.

To get its safe, effective and long-lasting treatment, one can try Ayurveda. Allergy Treatment in Ayurveda is done by first diagnosing the individual root cause of every patient. Each time a person comes in contact with an allergen, the doshas are imbalanced and toxins are released in the body. These toxins cause contamination of deeper tissues and lead to allergic symptoms.

Our doctors at Jiva Ayurveda recommend an individualised allergy treatment plan for patients, including proper diet and customised Ayurvedic medicine for allergy. The line of treatment works on pacifying the imbalanced doshas as well as cleansing the body of accumulated toxins with a personalised diet and lifestyle plan.

Vulvar Eczema Prevention tips

1. Avoid taking soap or bubble baths or using essential oils.
2. Use gentle, unscented cleaning products on the genital area. Water is also sufficient for cleansing as soaps may disturb the pH balance of the vulva region.
3. Thoroughly dry the genitals after bathing. Change into dry clothing after an intense workout session & swimming.
4. Use toilet paper without perfume or colouring.
5. Wear breathable, loose-fitting cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight clothes.
6. Don’t douche to maintain the natural balance of your vagina & vulva.