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Gynecology

Issues below

11/20/2009

Question:

A few days ago, I noticed that while I was showering, the soap was irritating my vagina, and there was a slight burn. It`s been a few days, and my vagina itches a little bit, and the burning from the soap has gotten worst. I think there maybe a smell too, but I`m not sure. I don`t think it`s the soap that caused it. What is this?

Answer:

The lining of the vagina is not unlike that of the inside of the nose. It is very sensitive to chemicals. Placing perfume in the vagina can be like spraying perfume into your nose. You will get a lot of stinging and discharge. It can cause a serious chemical irritation that will react like you describe. Any barrier cream will help soothe the area and protect it from irritation of urine. Sween or A&D ointment will work until the normal healing occurs.

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Response by:

Thomas A deHoop, MD Thomas A deHoop, MD
Formerly Associate Professor of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology
Director, Medical Student Education
No longer associated