HealthInfo Canterbury
Vulval irritation & pain
The vulva is the area around the opening of the vagina. It includes the labia (inner and outer vaginal lips) and the clitoris.
Vulval symptoms are common in women of all ages. These include itching, pain, soreness or a change in the skin colour and texture. There are some simple things you can do to look after your vulva, but if you have symptoms, you should see your GP.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
What is normal?
- Canterbury DHB – Vulval skin conditions
This leaflet explains how to avoid vulval irritation and how to avoid making it worse.
- Jean Hailes for Women's Health – Vulval health and hygiene
General information and diagrams showing the female anatomy, and explanation of what is normal, and how to manage any irritation.
When there is a problem
- Australian and New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society patient information
Factsheets about various vulval conditions.
- DermNet NZ – Vulvodynia (vulval pain)
Information from DermNet NZ.
- Patient.info – Itchy vulva (pruritus vulvae)
This factsheet discusses the possible causes of vulval itching.
- Australian and New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society – Lichen sclerosus
Information about the skin condition, lichen sclerosus.
- Australian and New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society – Painful sex
Factsheet about painful sex, and some useful tips.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed April 2019. Last updated May 2019.
See also:
Review key: HIVIP-32204
