Vulval Conditions
Vulval symptoms such as itching, soreness, irritation, dryness or changes in the skin can be uncomfortable and affect your everyday life, confidence and intimate relationships. These symptoms are common, but they are not something you have to put up with.
At West Wales Women’s Wellbeing, our Consultant Gynaecologist can assess your symptoms, explore possible causes and discuss appropriate treatment options in a supportive and confidential environment.
Whether you have been experiencing persistent irritation, noticed changes to the appearance of your vulva or have concerns that have not improved with previous treatment, a consultation can help you better understand what may be happening and what to do next.
What can we help you with?
A consultation may be helpful if you are experiencing:
- Persistent itching or irritation – discomfort that keeps returning or does not settle.
- Soreness, burning or stinging – symptoms that affect your comfort, daily activities or intimate relationships.
- Vulval dryness – dryness or sensitivity, including symptoms associated with hormonal changes around menopause.
- Changes in the skin – changes in colour, texture or appearance, including areas that look pale, thickened or inflamed.
- Lumps, bumps or skin changes – new or unexplained changes that you would like assessed.
- Pain during sex – discomfort that affects intimacy or sexual wellbeing.
- Recurring symptoms – concerns that have returned despite previous treatment or advice.
- Persistent vulval pain – discomfort for which you have not yet found a clear explanation.
- Concerns about a vulval skin condition – including conditions such as lichen sclerosus, lichen planus or vulval dermatitis.
Vulval symptoms can have several possible causes, including skin conditions, hormonal changes, irritation, infection or other medical conditions. A careful assessment can help identify what may be contributing to your symptoms and whether further investigation is needed.
What happens during your consultation?
Your appointment with our Consultant Gynaecologist will focus on understanding your symptoms, medical history and concerns.
A detailed assessment
Your consultant will ask about your symptoms, when they started, what makes them better or worse, any previous treatments and how they affect your everyday life.
Examination, where appropriate
Depending on your symptoms, an examination of the vulval area may be recommended to assess the skin and identify any changes that need further investigation. This will be explained beforehand, and your consent is required.
Considering possible causes
Your consultant will discuss the possible explanations for your symptoms and whether additional investigations, such as swabs or blood tests, may be helpful. If the diagnosis is unclear or a particular skin change needs further assessment, referral for specialist review or a biopsy may be recommended.
A personalised treatment plan
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Your consultant will discuss appropriate options, which may include prescribed creams or ointments, treatment for an identified infection, advice on avoiding irritants, or further specialist assessment where needed.
Common vulval conditions
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can affect the vulva. It may cause itching, soreness, fragile skin or changes in skin colour and texture. It is not an infection and cannot be passed on through sexual contact.
Assessment is important because appropriate treatment and ongoing monitoring can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Vulval dermatitis
Vulval dermatitis is inflammation of the skin that can cause itching, redness, soreness or irritation. It may be associated with sensitive skin or reactions to products such as soaps, wipes, fragrances or topical preparations.
Identifying potential triggers and using appropriate treatment may help improve symptoms.
Vulval dryness and hormonal changes
Changes in oestrogen levels, particularly around menopause, can contribute to dryness, irritation, burning and discomfort around the vulva and vagina.
Your consultant can assess your symptoms and discuss suitable options, which may include moisturising treatments, local hormonal treatments where appropriate or other management approaches.
Persistent vulval pain
Vulval pain can have several causes and may occur even when there are no obvious changes to the skin. If pain persists or keeps returning, assessment can help identify possible contributing factors and determine whether further specialist input is needed.
What if my symptoms keep coming back?
If you have tried treatments without lasting improvement, it is worth seeking further advice rather than repeatedly treating the symptoms yourself.
Some vulval conditions require a specific diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan. Your consultant can review what you have already tried, consider whether the original diagnosis remains appropriate and advise whether further investigations or referral are needed.
You should also seek prompt medical assessment for a new or unexplained lump, ulcer, persistent sore or bleeding area, or a noticeable change to the vulval skin.
Book a vulval conditions consultation
If you are experiencing itching, soreness, dryness, pain or changes to your vulval skin, our Consultant Gynaecologist can help assess your concerns and discuss the most appropriate next steps.
You do not need to know what is causing your symptoms before booking, and you should never feel embarrassed about seeking help for an intimate concern.