Vulvar Care

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The vulva is the area of female sex organs that lies outside of the vagina. These organs include folds of sensitive tissue called the labia (labia means "lips"). The labia have two parts. The outermost folds are called the labia majora. A second set of folds, called the labia minora, is enclosed within the labia majora. The vulva also contains the mounded area made by the pubic bone (mons pubis), a small, round organ (clitoris), and the openings of the vagina and urinary canal (urethra).

Why is vulvar and vagina care important?

Many women experience uncomfortable, vaginal infections (vaginitis) at one time or another. The area around the entrance to the vagina (vulva) can also become irritated. Steps can be taken to relieve and prevent vulvar discomfort and vaginal infections.

Not all vaginal infections are alike and home treatments can worsen some types. If you have any concerns about your vulvar or vaginal health, or notice unusual changes in vaginal discharge, contact your GP / Gynaecology consultant if the problem persists.

What is a Vulvoscopy?
A Vulvoscopy is the examination of the vulva area using a microscope called a Colopscope. The vulva area consists of the labia (the two pairs of skin folds outside the female genitals) and the clitoris. 

Why do I need a Vulvoscopy?
A Vulvoscopy is indicated if you have noticed changes such as itching, redness, swelling or a change in colour or texture to the labial area.

What does the procedure involve?
A microscope called a Colposcope is used to look at the vulval area (this doesn’t touch or enter your body). A Colposcope looks like a pair of binoculars on a stand with a light source. You will be asked to remove your lower garments and lie on a special type of examination couch with padded supports on which to rest your legs. Two liquids (acetic acid and iodine) are applied to the vulval skin using cotton wool to highlight any abnormal areas. This may cause mild irritation. If any abnormal area is highlighted, a biopsy might be required. A nurse will with you for support and reassurance throughout the procedure.

Vulval Biopsy
A Vulval biopsy is a very small sample of skin which is taken from the vulval area and sent to the laboratory to be examined. This is to assess the level of abnormality and to determine whether treatment is necessary. Local anaesthetic is used before the biopsy is taken. This will sting for a few moments after which you will not feel any further discomfort. You may have 1 or 2 dissolvable stitches. The procedure takes about 20-30 minutes. Following your Vulval Biopsy you need to take care to allow the skin to heal as quickly as possible. The aftercare advice that follows will speed your recovery.

After a biopsy:

To reduce the risk of infection & promote healing:
• You should rest following the biopsy. Light exercise may continue but avoid heavy work and exercise for a few days or until the area has healed.
• You can expect some discomfort and light bleeding. Over-the-counter pain relief can be used if required (speak to the pharmacist if you need medication advice)
• No sexual intercourse for at least 2 weeks.
• You may shower as usual, but do not linger in the bath or add bubbles. Keep the area dry and clean. Gently pat the affected skin dry – do not rub vigorously. Avoid perfumed products until the area has healed.
• The stitches can take 7 to 10 days dissolve.
• Swimming can be resumed once the stitches have dissolved, and the biopsy site has healed.

 Tips for vulvar care?

• Use warm water to wash the vulva. Dry thoroughly with a clean towel. (If the vulva is very irritated, you can try drying it with a blow dryer set on cool.)
• The vagina cleanses itself naturally in the form of normal, vaginal discharge. Avoid using douches unless prescribed by your physician. These products can upset the natural balance of organisms.
• Wear only white, 100 percent cotton underwear. Avoid wearing nylon, acetate, or other manmade fibres if you have delicate skin or are prone to vulvar irritation.
• Avoid wearing thongs.
• Rinse underclothes carefully after washing or double rinse. Avoid using too much laundry detergent.
• Wash new underclothes before wearing.
• Use a mild soap (such as Dermol®) for washing underclothes. Avoid fabric softeners (including dryer sheets) and detergents with enzymes (amylase, lipase, protease and cellulose).
• Use soft toilet tissue (white only).
• Use tampons instead of sanitary napkins to control menstrual bleeding. (Do not use deodorant tampons.) Do not leave tampons in for a long period, due to toxic shock syndrome. Do not leave tampons in all night.
• Take sitz baths daily, if prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't scratch.
• Avoid wearing nylon pantyhose or panty girdles. They trap heat and moisture, providing an ideal breeding environment for organisms. When nylons or leggings are required, wear cotton or nylons with a cotton panty.
• Avoid these feminine hygiene products, which can irritate the vulva: sanitary pads, feminine spray and deodorants, scented oils, bubble baths, bath oils, talc or powder.