Hi Northcoast
Consider looking into lichen schlerosis. There are various discussions going on in women's health and in the dermatology area.
Hope this helps some.
you should get tested for STD's if you not done so . . .
I looked up lichen schlerosis and that doesn't sound like what I have. But thanks. And no STD's. This all started after I started exercising a lot and drinking lots of water. I basically doubled the amount of water I was drinking as a New Year's resolution. So my initial thoughts were that it was chafing and perhaps inflammation from more urine. But my urologist shot down the more urine thing, saying more water would make it more diluted. This has gotten me mildly depressed. Enough so that I'm seeking professional help. Just want this to all go away.
I went to a Naturopath and she suggested Vitamin E oil on the red area. My GYN said no to Vitamin E, saying it would irritate it. But I'm following the Naturopath's advice and so far the Vitamin E seems to be working. I'm back on metronidazole gel for ANOTHER recurrence of bacterial vaginosis. So I'm hoping the vitamin E protects the vulva from the gel that seems to irritate the whole area. After I'm done with the metro. gel my Naturopath wants me to go on a course of probiotics both orally and vaginally. So glad I went to see her. I finally feel HEARD by a doctor. Hoping her regimen kicks this cycle of infections once and for all!