Aquaphor for vulvar itching and burning

The ointment reduces friction and moisture loss on the vulva, which is the external genital skin. It is not designed for insertion into the vagina and does not treat yeast, bacterial or sexually transmitted infections, inflammatory skin disease, or hormonal dryness.

Irritant or allergic contact dermatitis can present with vulvar itching, burning, redness, or raw-feeling skin after exposure to soap, wipes, fragrance, pads, detergent, lubricant, or a topical medicine. Atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, lichen planus, and yeast infection can also affect this area, but they need different treatment.

Aquaphor contains ingredients beyond plain petrolatum, including lanolin alcohol in some formulations. A person who is sensitive to an ingredient may become more itchy or inflamed after use.

Rinse the external area gently with lukewarm water and pat dry. Avoid douches, deodorising sprays, fragranced washes, wet wipes, and vigorous scrubbing. If you try Aquaphor, place a small amount on external intact skin with clean hands and stop if it stings or worsens the rash.

Wear breathable, loose clothing and change out of damp exercise or swimwear. Do not self-treat repeatedly with antifungal or corticosteroid products unless the likely cause is clear, because unnecessary products can irritate the skin or alter its appearance before an examination.

Seek prompt assessment for genital sores or blisters, marked swelling, severe pain, fever, difficulty passing urine, pelvic pain, an unusual or foul-smelling discharge, bleeding not explained by menstruation, or symptoms after a possible sexually transmitted infection exposure. Arrange a routine examination if discomfort persists, returns, disrupts sleep, or comes with pale, thickened, cracked, or eroded skin.

Ask whether the pattern suggests contact dermatitis, infection, a chronic skin condition, or tissue dryness; whether a swab or skin examination is needed; and which bland barrier product is least likely to irritate you. Bring a list or photographs of every wash, wipe, pad, lubricant, medicine, and ointment used in the area.