Yeast infection on vulva skin: symptoms and care

Vulvovaginal candidiasis occurs when Candida overgrows in the vagina or on nearby vulval skin. Heat, moisture, friction, antibiotics, hormonal changes, diabetes, and sensitive skin can contribute. Thick discharge may occur when the vagina is involved, but external irritation can happen without it. Soap, pads, eczema, herpes, bacterial infections, and some sexually transmitted infections can cause similar burning or itching, so repeated self-treatment can delay the right diagnosis.

Rinse with lukewarm water, pat dry, and wear loose breathable underwear. Change out of damp clothing and avoid scented washes, douches, bubble baths, and deodorant products on the vulva. Try not to scratch; cool compresses over clothing may soothe irritation. A pharmacist or clinician can recommend an antifungal when thrush is likely. Ask before treatment if this is your first episode, you are pregnant, or symptoms keep returning.

Arrange an appointment for severe pain, sores, blisters, unusual odour, bleeding, fever, pelvic pain, pregnancy, or symptoms that do not improve. Seek urgent help if swelling makes urination difficult or you feel faint or seriously unwell. An examination can distinguish vulval skin irritation from vaginal infection and other causes.

Is the irritation on the vulva, inside the vagina, or both? Could another infection or skin condition explain it? Which product is safe, and should my partner or I have testing?