Jean Hailes for Women's Health asked Australian women who had recently seen a doctor about bothersome periods how the conversation felt. In its National Women's Health Survey findings on seeking help, 69% felt believed, yet 34% felt dismissed and 29% felt embarrassed.
Embarrassment is also part of the story for vulvar and vaginal health. Jean Hailes has written that many of us are too embarrassed to talk about vulval and vaginal health, especially with our doctors, and that women often turn to information online rather than raising the issue with their doctor. This guide is a small step towards making that conversation feel ordinary.
Quick answer: Destigmatising vulvar and vaginal health starts with knowing that every vulva is unique, that water or soap-free products are enough for washing, and that itch, pain, lumps or unusual discharge deserve a doctor's examination rather than guesswork. You can bring a support person, ask for a female doctor and ask the doctor to stop at any time.
Is my vulva normal?
Normal covers a wide range. The Jean Hailes vulva and vagina health hub says everyone's vulva is unique in size, shape, colour and appearance, and that it is normal for the left and right sides to differ in shape and size. Smell varies too: the vulva and vagina can smell different at certain times in the menstrual cycle and after menopause. Healthdirect adds that the labia may change as you get older or when your hormones change.
What should I use to wash my vulva?
Water on its own, or a soap-free wash, is what Jean Hailes recommends for the vulva. Perfumed soaps and bath products, douches and vaginal washes can irritate the vulva, so they are best left on the shelf. Jean Hailes also warns never to use talcum powder on the vulva, because it can cause inflammation. If you'd like to compare notes on what is typical, our article on getting to know your vulva and vagina is a good companion read.
Why shouldn't I diagnose vulval symptoms myself?
Because several different conditions can feel alike, and self-diagnosis is no substitute for an examination and discussion with your doctor, as Jean Hailes puts it. An itch is not always thrush: skin conditions such as dermatitis or eczema and lichen sclerosus can also cause itching. Lichen sclerosus is an inflammatory autoimmune skin condition that can cause scarring if it is not treated, and in a very small number of cases it can lead to cancer of the vulva.
How do I raise a vulval change with my doctor?
Book a longer appointment, ideally with a doctor who has an interest in women's health, and point to where the change is. Jean Hailes' guide on how to talk to your doctor about vulval changes suggests:
- getting to know your vulva beforehand, for example by feeling it in the bath or shower;
- taking a trusted friend or family member into the consultation if that puts you at ease;
- printing a vulval diagram and showing the doctor the spot, since you don't need the medical words;
- expecting an examination, and knowing you can ask the doctor to stop if you feel uncomfortable.
When to see a doctor
Jean Hailes lists these as reasons to make an appointment:
- pain, irritation, itching, bleeding or fissures (skin splitting) in the genital area;
- a new lump, a cut, rash or ulcer;
- unusual discharge or unusual bleeding;
- an unpleasant, yeasty or fishy smell, which may be a sign of infection;
- any change that doesn't look or feel normal for you.
Frequently asked questions
Can I ask to see a female doctor?
Yes. The healthdirect page on labia problems says you can ask to see a female doctor if you prefer. Jean Hailes also encourages choosing a doctor you feel comfortable with, and reminds patients that it is your appointment, so you can back out of the consultation if you stop feeling comfortable.
Is it normal for my labia to be uneven?
Yes. Healthdirect explains that the size, shape and colour of the labia are different for everyone, and that the two sides may not match. The outer folds are usually larger and may be covered in pubic hair, while the smaller inner lips sit around the vaginal and urethral openings. See a doctor if your labia cause symptoms.
What if my GP doesn't take my symptoms seriously?
You have options. Jean Hailes suggests that if a GP is unhelpful, a women's health clinic or a doctor who specialises in women's health may be an option. You can also ask for an examination rather than relying on a description of your symptoms alone.
Feeling at home in your body includes choosing period products that suit it. The Lunette period cup comes in two sizes, Size 1 for a light to medium flow and Size 2 for a heavier flow, and is made in Finland from 100% medical-grade silicone. Compare both in our period cup size guide before you pick your first menstrual cup.
General information only, not medical advice: please talk to your GP or another health professional about your own symptoms.
