(( VaginaPagina ))

I just joined the group, but it appears that quite a few of the questions here are related to genital skin issues (such as itching and the appearance of tiny tears).

I thought that it might be good to offer up a few references for folks:

Genital Skin Problems - This is a very good quick reference guide to potential causes of discomfort. It also offers some idea of treatment for each. This is a medical site that supplies pictures for some of these issues, so don't be shocked to see images of genitals.

Vulval conditions - This is a much less indepth guide meant for the layman. There are some helpful tips offered up, and it may give you an idea of what issues are probable.

International Society for the Study of Vulvoginal Disease - I particularly recommend the sections labeled Patient Education and Links to related sites. This site goes over what is "normal" in terms of appearance and discharge, and also discusses how to cleanse your genitals without irritating them.

I think that between all these links, you will find almost every condition addressed. The thing is, no matter what you *think* you are dealing with you should most likely consult your general physician (or even better...a dermatologist) and make sure that you are right before treating it. Treatments for one condition may irritate another, and some conditions may look like they have disappeared but they have only entered another stage where they are dormant or manifesting in another form. Be sure you know what you are dealing with. Physicians have seen it all, so there is no reason to be embarrassed.

Some general guidelines for maintaining genital health:

Limit (or eliminate) the use of scented/dyed/chemical products that will make contact with your genitals. Scented toilet paper, laundry soaps, residue from your shampoo/conditioner, chlorinated water, bubble bath, shower soaps, scented feminine hygiene products and such are frequently irritating.

Don't wash your genitals with soap, or use a very mild and moisturizing type

Don't douche, deodorize, or use talc

Shower instead of bathe

Wear underwear that has a cotton crotch, and don't wear anything that is too tight

If irritation arises from "dryness", use products such as KY to keep your vagina moist and comfortable

Wipe from front to back, so that you do not transfer bacteria to your vagina or urethra from your anus.
(For the same reason, do not have anal sex followed by vaginal sex without changing the condom or cleaning off the toy/penis/whatever well. You may want to keep some toys as exclusively anal toys, unless you plan on boiling them to clean them.)

Pat the vulva dry with a clean towel when you get out of the shower/bath rather than rubbing vigorously.

If you seem to experience burning upon contact with your urine (and this is due to sensitivity rather than an infection), try drinking more water every day and lightly rinsing your vulva with lukewarm pure water after you urinate

I hope this helps those of you with questions.

Please be sure not to try to treat these things yourself though. You really should go into your doctor to get a clear diagnosis. No amount of well meaning peer support and information exchange can replace professional testing.

Vamp:)=