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Vulval and vaginal conditions

There are many conditions that can affect your vulva and vagina. Sometimes they can be irritating or even painful. Most conditions improve with treatment, so it’s important to see your doctor if you notice anything unusual. Learn more about these conditions, including the symptoms, causes, treatments and when to see your doctor.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a bacterial infection of the vagina. It is caused by a change in the healthy balance of vaginal bacteria. Learn more about this condition, the symptoms, causes and treatment options. Read more

Lichen planus (LP) is an inflammatory skin condition triggered by the immune system. It causes white streaks, erosions and sores on your skin. It can also affect moist areas of your body, such as your vulva and around the vaginal opening. Learn more about LP, the symptoms, causes and how to manage this condition. Read more

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic skin disorder that usually affects the skin around your vulva and anus. It causes the skin to appear white, thick and wrinkly. Learn more about this condition, the symptoms, causes and treatment options. Read more

Thrush (also known as a ‘yeast infection’) is a common infection of the vulva and vagina, and sometimes the mouth. It’s caused by an overgrowth of yeast that lives normally in the vagina and gut. Learn more about vulvovaginal thrush, the symptoms, causes and how to manage this condition. Read more

Vaginal atrophy (or vulvovaginal atrophy) is the thinning of your vaginal lining and vulval skin, caused by a drop in oestrogen levels around the time of menopause. Reduced oestrogen levels also affect the tissues of the bladder, urethra (where wee comes out) and pelvic floor muscles. Learn more about vaginal atrophy, the symptoms, causes and how to manage this condition. Read more

Vaginismus is when your pelvic floor muscles involuntarily tighten. These muscles are in the lower third of the vagina. This can happen before or during an attempt to insert something into the vagina. For example, before or during sex, when inserting a tampon or sex toy, or during a vaginal examination. Learn more about this condition, the symptoms, causes and treatment options. Read more

This con­tent has been reviewed by a group of med­ical sub­ject mat­ter experts, in accor­dance with Jean Hailes pol­i­cy.

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