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Gynecology (Expert Forum)
What might be the cause of the sensations I am having in my vaginal area?
Answered by
Elaine Brown, MD - Pregnancy, Gynecology
Elaine Brown, MD - BLOG
Billings - MT
What might be the cause of the sensations I am having in my vaginal area?
by Ell149, Sep 26, 2009 12:13PM
I am 60 years old. About two weeks ago I noticed an odd sensation when I urinated – initially not really burning, although it was more like burning after a while. I have had UTIs a long time ago and know what that feels like – I don't have the constant urge and inability to go. I don't have any discharge, no cloudiness to or blood in my urine, no pain and it doesn't itch. Then after that initial feeling, I noticed this other sensation which over time I determined to be somewhere around the clitoris. It seemed that possibly either my clitoris or the hood was somewhat enlarged. I have this feeling of being very slightly aroused – like there is blood flowing to that area. I have not had any form of sex in the last month and did not do anything that would have led to an STD.
Yesterday, I used a soap with tea tree oil in it when I showered and my symptoms were much worse. I had done that also in the last two weeks and wonder if that started my problem. I had greater discomfort which went on all day. Today it is better and does not look as swollen or inflamed. However, when I urinate I again have a slight burning sense which goes away after a few minutes. I am generally aware of this other sensation most of the time.
I am wondering if I could have a UTI and just have really mild symptoms? Could this be a Vaginal infection? contact dermatitis? reaction to the Chinese herbs I take (I see an acupuncturist for fatigue issues)? hormonal changes as a result of the acupuncture and herbal treatments? food? (i.e., the pH of my urine has an effect on any inflammation?)
If I go for an exam and tests, I am paying out of pocket. I want to take care of my health, but also be cost effective. Suggestions?
Yesterday, I used a soap with tea tree oil in it when I showered and my symptoms were much worse. I had done that also in the last two weeks and wonder if that started my problem. I had greater discomfort which went on all day. Today it is better and does not look as swollen or inflamed. However, when I urinate I again have a slight burning sense which goes away after a few minutes. I am generally aware of this other sensation most of the time.
I am wondering if I could have a UTI and just have really mild symptoms? Could this be a Vaginal infection? contact dermatitis? reaction to the Chinese herbs I take (I see an acupuncturist for fatigue issues)? hormonal changes as a result of the acupuncture and herbal treatments? food? (i.e., the pH of my urine has an effect on any inflammation?)
If I go for an exam and tests, I am paying out of pocket. I want to take care of my health, but also be cost effective. Suggestions?
Doctor's Answer
by Elaine Brown, MD, Sep 28, 2009 11:14PM
, Sep 28, 2009 11:14PMTo: Ell149
Hi!
It sounds most like a dermatitis. I'm assuming that you are postmenopausal and not on hormone replacement therapy. That will make your vulvar and vaginal tissues mildly atrophic and more sensitive to anything topical. I would suggest using only the very mildest of soaps in that area--Neutrogena or Cetaphil-- or even no soap at all for awhile.
If you were my patient, I would advise against applying anything topical--natural products or otherwise. The best thing to use for relief from symptoms ( believe it or not!) is Crisco. I would suggest trying that for a few days to see if the symptoms improve. If the symptoms persist or worsen, I would move next to an anti-inflammatory agent such as hydrocortisone, but be certain there are no chemicals scents or dyes in the product.
If that doesn't do the trick within a few days, your best bet is to get a check up.
It certainly would also be a good idea to rule out a urinary tract infection. If you have an established doctor, they will often let you do a urinanalysis without having to pay for an office visit.
I hope this helps!
Dr B
It sounds most like a dermatitis. I'm assuming that you are postmenopausal and not on hormone replacement therapy. That will make your vulvar and vaginal tissues mildly atrophic and more sensitive to anything topical. I would suggest using only the very mildest of soaps in that area--Neutrogena or Cetaphil-- or even no soap at all for awhile.
If you were my patient, I would advise against applying anything topical--natural products or otherwise. The best thing to use for relief from symptoms ( believe it or not!) is Crisco. I would suggest trying that for a few days to see if the symptoms improve. If the symptoms persist or worsen, I would move next to an anti-inflammatory agent such as hydrocortisone, but be certain there are no chemicals scents or dyes in the product.
If that doesn't do the trick within a few days, your best bet is to get a check up.
It certainly would also be a good idea to rule out a urinary tract infection. If you have an established doctor, they will often let you do a urinanalysis without having to pay for an office visit.
I hope this helps!
Dr B
