Where do I begin???

When I was diagnosed with vulvodynia, I was surprised to learn that skincare can make a big difference in ones symptoms. Vulvodynia is a skin illness with no known cause- so no infection, no STD, no visible sign of skin disorder is present. And yet, what a patient puts on their skin can still make their pain worse! Even explaining it now, it still doesn’t make much sense to me. When I asked my vulvar specialist why this was… Specifically, I asked her, if vulvodynia is a nerve damage illness, then why do things like scents and perfumes bother the vagina?, She responded, “Your skin is still exposed and vulnerable to these things. It can cause extra irritation”.

Earlier, before I was diagnosed, my doctors thought my symptoms might be related to an allergy. A biopsy of my vagina showed some contact dermatitis. So, they had me get rid of any possible irritants. It was a huge nightmare! But after some months of hard work, I have finally curated a skincare routine and a long list of products to avoid. Here’s some tips from what I’ve learned:

1. Wear 100% cotton underwear (or nothing at all!)

This is a hard one for me, working in a lingerie store. I am surrounded by beautiful, lacy, frilly knickers. But do not be tempted! Your vagina needs to breathe: Those with vulvodynia and those prone to infections, especially. It’s worth your health to avoid the synthetic fabrics. Some people are even prone to irritation due to fabric dies. In order to avoid this, wash new underwear prior to wearing them, or wear only white underwear. When possible, I don’t even wear underwear. This is the most breathable option. My doctors encourage me to wear no underwear or bottoms at all during the night, and whenever I can.

This means I also wear cotton period underwear. I totally avoid the bleached, scented, complex tampons and pads. Furthermore, inserting a tampon would likely be a painful experience for me and some others with v.

2. Use non-scented hygiene products

I’ve switched to either Dr. Bronners unscented soap or Dove’s unscented soap bar for general body use, and also have switched to unscented shampoos and conditioners. It’s easier, since I don’t have to rinse my hair out while avoiding any run off water from hitting my lower half (this is really what doctors suggest women do who use scented/colored/complicated hair products!).

3. Do NOT wash/douche/scrub your vagina

Some people think they need to wash their vaginas to keep them clean. This is a dangerously false statement as it can negatively impact your vagina’s PH level- making it more prone to infection and discomfort. I’ve been instructed to “wash” my vagina with water and water alone, then to dry it on cool with a hair dryer. I use a paper fan, since some doctors have said I should avoid a hair dryer. Professionals can’t even decide on this! Hilarity.

4. Shower immediately after exercise

I’m not sure why, but my symptoms get worse with sweat and wetness in general. Just keep cool whenever possible. Bring spare underwear if you are prone to wetness throughout the day so you can switch pairs out. Shower at the gym instead of waiting to shower at home. Listen to your body.

5. Use dermatologically friendly laundry soap

I make my own laundry soap out of borax, washing soda, and unscented bar soap. It’s a simple, easy task that keeps me in the know about what’s in my laundry soap. I’m sure there are some lovely store bought alternatives, but I enjoy sticking with the three ingredient wash.

6. Wear loose clothing

I can get into this more in another post, but if you are wearing breathable 100% organic cotton white underwear, but then put on some tight synthetic leggings or thick blue jeans, it won’t make much of a difference. This is also because I’m sensitive to pressure and touch, but it’s also a smart idea to wear loose clothing for breathability. Wide and loose pants are in style, and I’ve used that to my advantage (shown below).

7. Wear a barrier

People might be confused about this. Is she suggesting to wear a condom? No! I am suggesting a lubrication barrier to prevent chafing and irritation from walking/daily life. My doctor suggested using coconut oil or tea tree oil among other things. I use vaseline. Just apply this to your vagina after going to the bathroom, and it should prevent excess pain.

8. Avoid water based lube

This tip is different than what my doctors have told me, surprisingly. My doctors suggest water based lubes- however- smitten kitten professionals suggest that silicone lubricants are the least likely to cause infection by messing with your natural flora. I still use a water based lube called slippery stuff for dilation, but will likely use silicone when I can start having sex again.

9. Take long, relaxing sitz baths



Sitz baths are called sitz baths because you have to sit in them for around 30 minutes in order to really absorb the benefits of the sitz bath. I put two cups of epsom salt, two capfuls of apple cider vinegar, and a shake of baking soda into the tub. These ingredients reduce inflammation and promote healthy flora in the vagina. It also forces me to relax and not do too much work in a 30 minute sitting. That time spent reflecting, relaxing, and resting is just as beneficial for your vagina, if not more so, than the ingredients you put into the tub!

10. Basic self care

Your vagina is connected to the rest of your body. Drink lots of water. Sleep. avoid excess stress. Take a probiotic. You know what’s good for you <3





Thank you for reading! What do you do to promote a healthy vagina? Do you do anything differently than I do? Let me know!