Patient Information Leaflet (For Vulval Lichen Sclerosus, Vulval itching and Soreness, Vulvodynia)

General Measures:

• Healthy diet, rich in fruit and vegetables
• Use non-soap based washes and emollients
• Use an emollient (moisturiser) cream such as aqueous cream or similar instead of soap to clean the genital area. This is also soothing
• Lubricants may be useful during sex if this is painful
• Use Non- Biological washing powders
• Avoid fabric conditioners
• Avoid perfumed toiletries, bubble baths, and perfumes in the vulval area. These may irritate the skin and make symptoms worse
• Avoid synthetic underclothes and tights
• Avoid tight clothes, which can make the area hot and itchy
• Avoid scratching, better to use a cold flannel applied to the area

NITU BAJEKAL Consultant Gynaecologist, Barnet Hospital Jan 2007 (Updated Feb 2009)