Patient's question:
I vaguely remember when I got pregnant last year, I suffered from candidal vulvovaginitis, and the itching and pain in my external genitalia made me unable to sleep or eat all day. That feeling was truly excruciating, so I never want to experience it again. I would like to consult about what methods can be used to comprehensively prevent and treat external genital itching.Doctor's answer:
Some people mistakenly believe that the external genital area is a dirty place and use soap, hot water, salt water, cleaning solutions, or disinfectants to wash it every night. They even say that washing it makes them feel comfortable. In reality, the external genital area is not dirtier than the mouth or nose. Over-cleaning and sterilization can disrupt the normal flora of the external genital area, cause local inflammation, worsen itching, and even lead to conditions such as perianal inflammation, cystitis, or retrograde pyelonephritis.Comprehensive prevention and treatment of external genital itching should pay attention to the following points:
1. Pay attention to menstrual hygiene during menstruation and change menstrual pads frequently.
2. Always keep the external genital area clean and dry. Avoid washing with hot water or scrubbing with soap.
3. Avoid using or misusing medications, scratching, or applying anything locally.
4. Avoid alcohol and spicy foods, as well as seafood and other allergenic medications.