Experiencing a Vaginal Rash?

Vaginal Rash Overview

A vaginal rash can be caused by a variety of conditions, but many times it is a symptom of a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Other symptoms may occur with a vaginal rash including the following:

• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Itching, tingling, or irritation of the skin
• Pain during intercourse and/or urination
• Bumps, warts, or sores on the skin
• Noticeable eggs or insects crawling in the public hair

Possible Vaginal Rash Causes

Most often, a vaginal rash is an indicator of a STD, particularly herpes. Several common STDs can cause a vaginal rash:

• Genital herpes. A vaginal rash is a very common symptom of herpes. The rash can be so mild it is mistaken for something harmless like shaving irritation; Other times it can consist of red, painful blisters.
• Syphilis. Although less common in women, syphilis is known to cause a reddish rash during its secondary stage. This may appear as a rash around the vagina and genitals as well.
• Genital warts. This STD, caused by HPV, causes wart-like bumps around the vaginal and genital areas.
• Scabies or Crabs. These two STDs are caused by parasites. In addition to a vaginal rash, you may notice eggs or tiny insects burrowing in your pubic hair. Scabies and crab can both be through close contact rather than sexual intercourse.

Some non-STD causes of a vaginal rash include a yeast infection, allergic reaction to chemicals, soaps, etc., or razor burn.

Diagnosing a Vaginal Rash

If you are at risk for STDs and experiencing a vaginal rash, STD testing is your first step towards diagnosis. Genital herpes is the most frequent cause of STD-related vaginal rashes so be sure to take a type-specific herpes test. A type-specific test can determine whether herpes symptoms are caused by herpes simplex virus 1 or herpes simplex virus 2.

If you are not at risk for STDs (keep in mind even sex play and oral sex can transmit herpes and other STDs!) a doctor can help diagnose the cause of a vaginal rash.

Treating a Vaginal Rash

If you herpes test comes back positive, symptoms such as a genital rash can be controlled with antiviral medication. Antiviral medication suppressed herpes outbreaks and makes symptoms less severe. In addition to medication, condoms can reduce the chance of spreading the virus to others. Be sure not to engage in any sexual activity when a vaginal rash or other herpes symptoms are present.

If caused by another STD or condition, a doctor can advise you towards the best route of treatment.