Best Way To Treat Vaginal Psoriasis Naturally

Psoriasis is an autoimmune inflammatory condition of the skin that can occur anywhere on your body, including around your genitals. However, a good number of genital psoriasis patients go undiagnosed and without treatment for a long period. This is because most of them are too embarrassed to even tell their health professionals about their symptoms. Finding the best way to treat vaginal psoriasis naturally can help alleviate the symptoms, allowing you to lead a happy, normal life.

What is genital psoriasis?

This is a persistent skin condition that occurs around your genital part of the body. This disease is not contagious but can be inherited. Genital psoriasis can flare up on the vulva, the buttocks, around skin folds, and the penis. This condition affects both children and adults.

How is genital psoriasis different from other types of psoriasis?

Unlike psoriasis on other parts of your body that form thick, flaky, silver plaques, genital psoriasis appears in the form of a dark red rash that has sharp borders. Most times, this condition is confused with a sexually transmitted infection.

Vaginal Psoriasis

Also known as inverse psoriasis or flexural psoriasis, vaginal psoriasis can be found in the folds of your entire genital area. This includes the vulva, pubic area, the creases from your thigh to your groin, even to the buttocks and anal area. Although it’s not common, vaginal psoriasis may also occur in the inner part of your vagina.

What areas do inverse psoriasis affect women?

Inverse psoriasis commonly occurs underneath the breasts and armpits. This psoriasis does not have to be scaled because of the environment where it happens. People with this condition often experience discomfort because the rashes appear in quite sensitive and tender areas.

What vaginal psoriasis looks like

Vaginal psoriasis is not the typical white or silvery plaque psoriasis found on your scalp, elbow, or knees. Instead, the skin appears as smooth, with red patches and small red bumps or dots. The spots may also look cracked.

Regions that might be affected by female genital psoriasis

Pubis

This is the area above your genitals. Psoriasis in this part can be treated the same way as scalp psoriasis. However, caution should be undertaken since the skin is more sensitive than the skin on your scalp.

Upper thigh

Psoriasis in this region usually consists of multiple small, dark red and scaly round patches of rushes. This psoriasis can easily be irritated, especially when the thighs rub against each other.

Anus

Psoriasis on or near the anus usually looks red, non-scaly and inclined to itchiness. Most of the time, it is confused with infections, ringworm infestation, haemorrhoids itching or yeast.
Buttocks crease genital psoriasis may appear between the creases in your buttocks. This psoriasis is synonymous with thick scales or red and non-scaly plaques.

Folds between the thigh and the groin

This form of psoriasis looks reddish-white and non-scaly. The skin may also have cracks.

How Is It Different From Other Forms Of Psoriasis

Genital psoriasis does not have the thick, flaky scales and dry, silvery plaques linked with other types of psoriasis. Instead, it looks like a red, inflamed rash with distinct borders. The symptoms of this condition are often worse because this region is regularly exposed to friction, moisture, and warmth. One of the main characteristics of genital psoriasis is the affinity to worsen with any skin trauma. Hence, athletic activity, sexual activity, and tight clothing can make your symptoms worse.

How Does Vaginal Psoriasis Affect Your Sex Life?

Vaginal psoriasis can make your sex life a little more complicated. However, it is essential for people to understand that it does not inhibit your sexual function. Make sure to share with your partner about your condition and to assure them that it is not contagious.

Below are some useful psoriasis sex tips

• Maintain high cleanliness levels, especially in your genital area
• Clean your genital area after engaging in any sexual activity
• Use condoms that are adequately lubricated
• Do not try to speed up the healing process by applying more medication against as directed

It could be helpful if a patient and their partner came to a doctor’s visit together.

Can I Still Have Sex If I Have Vaginal Psoriasis?

Yes. You can still have sex even if you have vaginal psoriasis. However, it is wise for you to have a discussion with your partner and let them know that the rash is merely an autoimmune response that is not contagious. If you are using any topical medication on the area, it might be crucial that you exercise some caution in the timing of sexual activity and when you applied the topical treatment. For instance, you can apply it in the morning, so that by evening it will have absorbed and will not be an issue for your partner.
There might be times that you may wish to avoid sex, especially during a psoriasis flare-up as it may cause discomfort or pain in the area. Also, consider using a mild lubricant to help alleviate the discomfort.

How To Treat Vaginal Psoriasis Naturally

Since the skin on your genital region is thinner and more delicate than in other parts of your body, you will need to use extra caution when treating your vaginal psoriasis. Unless you are experiencing an extreme flare-up, you should be able to manage your vaginal psoriasis naturally. Still, it is essential that you speak with your doctor before trying any new treatment, including natural therapies.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits

One of the best ways to manage your vaginal psoriasis is by adopting a healthy lifestyle. A healthy diet and regular exercise can in fact help you reducing psoriasis symptoms, feel more energetic.  It is also important to avoid those foods that might trigger a flare up and opt for psoriasis friendly meals.

Natural Moisturisers

Keep your skin constantly moisturised it is also very important to reduce psoriasis symptoms. Coconut oil, jojoba oil and also olive oil are valid alternatives to steroid creams. They can be used for long period of time without any side effects.

Nutritional Supplement

Fish like mackerel, herring, sardines, and salmon are excellent sources of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, which are both keys to improving the symptoms of psoriasis. Omega 3s helps to reduce psoriasis inflammation. Research suggests that taking a daily dose of oral fish oil supplements comprising 1.8 to 3.6 grams of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) can bring some improvement. It is also recommended to take a multivitamin, probiotics and vitamin D3 supplement to ensure your immune system is in tip-top shape.

Exercise

Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis and other autoimmune conditions. Hence, you can incorporate exercise into your daily regimen to ease your psoriasis, to alleviate stress and increase endorphin levels.

Destination Treatments

Evidence suggests that exposure to sunshine and bathing in natural springs can relieve psoriasis symptoms. This is known as balneotherapy. The Dead Sea in the Mediterranean is known for its healing properties because of its high salt concentration and its elevation below sea level which provides optimal sunlight. Adding Dead Sea Salt or Epsom Salt to your bath is also a valid alternative.

Tips for Managing Vaginal Psoriasis

The first and most important tip for managing vaginal psoriasis is looking for a doctor that you can comfortably work with. You also have to take care of your skin to avoid trauma and extreme dryness. Keeping your skin hydrated is also crucial in managing your psoriasis.

Here are additional tips to help you manage vaginal psoriasis

• Using a mild cleanser that is mild on your skin
• Avoiding taking long baths, especially in hot water
• Asking your health professionals for a recommendation for a decent skin moisturiser
• Use a moisturiser while still moist (after bathing)
• Applying cold compresses to dry, itchy areas