I've been having this problem for a year now and my doctor has given me numerous treatments such as pills to treat thrush , steroid creams and coal tar creams but NOTHING is clearing it! My labia majora is extremely itchy, the skin is hard and swollen and bumpy, I often scratch it until it bleeds as I cannot help it. I've tried not shaving and using fragrance free shower gels, cotton knickers etc and none of these help, I'm at my wits end now and so down about it as I just dont know what it is and feel like I've tried everything! I'm only 19 and have been swab tested twice all came back clear. There is not really any unusual discharge and it sometimes burns when I pee, it's ruined my sex life as I think it looks awful so I'm not sexually active anymore. Please help
Well, it does help not to scratch, but I know sometimes it's incredibly hard not to. Have you tried a cold compress for the itching? Soak a clean washcloth or soft rag in cold water, then press it against the area.
What kinds of doctors have you seen? A gynecologist? Dermatologist? (I wouldn't see a GP for this kind of rash, they don't know how to handle it and might just make it worse.) A vulvar specialist would probably be ideal, as this sounds like vulvar vestibulitis.
For now, I wouldn't put ANYTHING on it. When you shower, wash the hairy part only, no soap in contact with your actual vulva, and don't let the shower water get too hot. Underwear should be white cotton, washed in hot water with a detergent for sensitive skin, or possibly without detergent. No bleach.
Just two more suggestions: Benadryl pills could help with the itching, especially at night. And one thing that might ease the itching is lidocaine, a topical preparation intended to be used inside the mouth. In the US it's available by prescription. (A dental medicine should be safe. Most things intended for the skin are too harsh for the vulva.)
Hi,
I feel so sorry for you as its the most distressing condition.
I had almost the same symptoms two years ago. Admitted I am much older than you but I wonder could it be a Hormonal problem.
I'm really not sure if someone as young as you could have a hormonal problem but that's what mine turned out to be and I was prescribed HRT pessaries specifically for that area,
it saved me from going crazy. I still think you are young but you would be wise to seek a Dr who specialises in femail problems.
I wish you the best,
