Irritant contact dermatitis of the vagina causes the skin of the vagina to become red, sore, or irritated after coming in contact with a substance. It can be caused by contact with water, soap, powders, cream, and clothing. It can be caused by irritants or friction.

Rarity: Common

Symptoms

Vaginal itch or burning
Vulvovaginal redness
Blistering
Dry skin
Sores
Swelling

Treatment

Avoid using products that may irritate your vagina. The dermatitis should go away a few days after you remove what’s causing it. To help prevent contact dermatitis, avoid douching and using vaginal washes.

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Jeffrey M. Rothschild, MD, MPH.

Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Dr. Rothschild has been a faculty member at Brigham and Women’s Hospital where he is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He currently practices as a hospitalist at Newton Wellesley Hospital. In 1978, Dr. Rothschild received his MD at the Medical College of Wisconsin and trained in internal medicine followed by a fellowship in critical care medicine. He also received an MP...

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