What Is Vulval Eczema? (And Why It’s Often Called Vaginal Eczema)

Fast answer

Vulval eczema is a non-infectious inflammatory skin condition that affects the vulva — the outer genital skin.
It does not affect the vagina itself.

The term “vaginal eczema” is commonly used, but it is medically inaccurate. In most cases, symptoms described as vaginal eczema are actually vulval eczema.

This page is part of our main guide on female genital eczema, which covers symptoms, causes, and treatment options in more detail.

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Vulva vs vagina: a simple explanation

Understanding the difference helps reduce confusion and anxiety.

• The vulva is the external genital area.
  This includes:
  • the labia (inner and outer lips)
  • the clitoral area
  • the opening of the vagina
  • the surrounding outer skin
• The vagina is the internal muscular canal inside the body.

👉 Eczema affects skin.
👉 The vagina does not have skin in the same way the vulva does.

This is why eczema develops on the vulva, not inside the vagina.

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Where vulval eczema actually appears

Vulval eczema can affect one or more areas of the vulva, including:

• the outer labia
• the inner labia
• the skin around the vaginal opening
• the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus)

Symptoms may include:

• itching or burning
• redness or darkened patches
• dryness or flaking
• soreness or stinging
• cracks or splits in the skin
• increased sensitivity to touch, clothing, or washing

Symptoms can be mild or severe. They may flare and settle over time. Obviously genital is just one type of eczema but you can learn a lot more from our eczema master guide.

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Why “vaginal eczema” is often misused

Many people use the term vaginal eczema because:

• symptoms are felt around the vaginal opening
• itching and soreness feel deep or internal
• the term “vulva” is not commonly taught or used

However, medically speaking:

• eczema affects external skin
• internal vaginal symptoms are usually caused by something else, such as:
  • thrush
  • bacterial vaginosis
  • hormonal changes
  • irritation from products

Using the correct term — vulval eczema — helps ensure the right treatment and reassurance.

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Is vulval eczema common?

Yes. Vulval eczema is more common than many people realise.

It can affect:

• teenagers
• adults
• pregnant women
• post-menopausal women

It is not caused by poor hygiene, and it is not contagious.

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Is vulval eczema a sexually transmitted infection?

No.
Vulval eczema is not an STI and cannot be passed on through sexual contact.

Because symptoms can resemble infections, it is common for people to worry or self-diagnose incorrectly. If symptoms persist or worsen, a GP or healthcare professional can rule out infection and confirm the diagnosis.

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What causes vulval eczema?

Vulval eczema develops when the skin barrier becomes irritated or weakened. Triggers may include:

• fragranced soaps or washes
• intimate hygiene products
• sanitary pads or liners
• tight or synthetic clothing
• sweating and friction
• stress or hormonal changes
• existing eczema or sensitive skin elsewhere on the body

Often, it is a combination of factors rather than one single cause.

For a full breakdown of triggers and flare management, visit our female genital eczema guide .

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How vulval eczema is different from other conditions

Vulval eczema is commonly confused with:

• thrush
• bacterial infections
• lichen sclerosus
• contact dermatitis

Each condition requires different treatment. This is why correct identification matters.

👉 You can learn more about how eczema affects the skin in our main guide:
What is eczema? (link to Eczema Hub)

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Key reassurance

• Vulval eczema is manageable
• It is not infectious
• It is not sexually transmitted
• Gentle care and the right products can significantly reduce symptoms

If you are unsure what you’re dealing with, medical advice can provide reassurance and clarity.

You can also find trusted medical guidance on genital eczema from the NHS eczema overview .

Further trusted guidance can be found on the Webmd website.

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Next step

For a full overview of symptoms, triggers, and treatment options, visit our main guide:
👉 Female Genital Eczema

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