Ringworm on the inner thigh in women: what to know

Heat, sweat, friction and close-fitting clothing can keep the groin and inner-thigh skin damp, allowing a fungus to grow. The rash may have a more active, scaly edge with clearer skin toward the centre, although appearances vary. It can extend toward the buttock or other nearby skin. Ringworm is not the same as a vaginal infection, and irritation, eczema or other conditions can look similar. Avoid assuming the diagnosis from shape alone.

Keep the area gently clean and thoroughly dry, change out of sweaty clothing, and choose loose breathable underwear. Do not scratch, share towels, or use a steroid cream by itself on a suspected fungal rash; steroids can disguise changes and allow infection to spread. A clinician or pharmacist can guide you to an appropriate topical antifungal, with treatment used exactly as directed. A widespread, recurrent or difficult-to-reach rash may need medical review and oral medicine. See [Ringworm](/conditions/ringworm/) and [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/).

Arrange an appointment if the rash involves genital skin, is painful, cracked, oozing or spreading, or does not improve with appropriate treatment. Seek prompt care for fever, marked swelling, pus, rapidly worsening pain, or a tender rash in pregnancy. A clinician can distinguish ringworm from conditions needing a different medicine.

Does the rash fit ringworm, or could it be irritation or another infection? Which product is suitable for this skin fold? How long should I continue it after symptoms settle? Could a partner, household contact or shared towel be a source of reinfection?