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Pruritus vulvae - Management
How do I manage pruritus vulvae with an unknown cause?
The aim of treatment is to reduce irritation of the vulval area, relieve itch, reduce scratching, and break the itch-scratch-cycle.
- Offer symptomatic treatment with an emollient and a sedating antihistamine.
- Consider prescribing a short trial (1-2 weeks) of low potency topical corticosteroids (hydrocortisone 1% ointment).
- If symptoms persist despite treatment with an emollient, a sedating oral antihistamine, and a trial of low potency topical corticosteroids, refer for further investigation to a dermatologist, gynaecologist, or vulval clinic.
- While the woman is waiting to be seen by a specialist advise her to continue using an emollient and a sedating antihistamine.
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