Chaffed Labia from Running

[Endermite]

I am six runs in to a Garmin 5k training programme. Mostly it is going well and I’m running a reasonable distance already even though I’m a beginning runner, as I was reasonably fit from other sports, if a bit over weight. My issue is that my labia seem to be getting chaffed. They don’t bother me when I run but afterwards they are not so much sore as just a bit irritated/itchy.

I have ordered some Body Glide. All the anti chaffing products say not to use them internally. Does this just mean not actually inside your vagina? Is using it on the inside of your outer labia and both sides of your inner labia fine?

I find if I use anything other than plain water to wash down there I actually start to smell, in a way that I just don’t if I use water, so I guess I’m particularly sensitive to things going out of whack if I kill all the good bacteria off with soap. Has anyone found that anti-chaffing products have a similar effect on them? Any other recommendations?

I’ve had vulval surgery a few times and my surgeon recommends petroleum jelly as a protective layer so maybe that is an option? And do you run wearing knickers - might be worth trying without

Try Runderwear pants as they wick away moisture and are super comfy

Could you use non scented lube? It's meant for intimate areas so get some good supportive pants and slather it on.
It could be more sweat than chafing though so if that doesn't work try an intimate powder with breathable undies and loose shorts.

What are you wearing? Running leggings with a pepper gusset are designed that you don't need anything underneath, but cheap ones have a seam down the middle. Cotton pants are a killer. Are they realistically a bit tight? Alternately, baggy shorts might be a better option. Are you showing as soon as you get in? Washing your leggings hot enough?

Some great ideas, thank you.

I’m running in running legging type shorts, with a proper gusset…but with standard cotton pants as well. If anything they are both a smidge too large, but not by enough that I’d normally think of changing them. I tried running in loose shorts with a fitted short liner underneath but I found they rode up, in the case of the liner, and moved round in between my legs in the case of the outer shorts, and I ended up with my thighs rubbing so I opted for longer fitted shorts instead.

I will try and brave no undies and some Runderwear if that doesn’t work! Sweat is definitely a factor. I was thinking that thin period pants might be the thing but if there is running specific ones they are probably better still!

I do shower pretty much as soon as I get home.

If the no pants/Runderpants don’t work I will try out lube and Vaseline!

Vaseline is your friend here!

Period pants are very sweaty!

You need well-fitting, elasticated pants. Runderwear is great but pricy (I've got a pair for long runs from marathon training) but I've also got Decathlon and supermarket pants that are stretchy and fit well enough for day-to-day exercise and up to mid-distance.
I also like cloth pantliners.

Is personal grooming having an effect?

Try Dr Wolffs V-san protective ointment. I have a similar issue it's a protective layer for your labia and is water repellant. They sell it in Boots. It has been a game changer for me.

I was about to suggest running knickerless

An update, incase my chaffed bits are riveting:

Been for a lunchtime run and I went commando and also used a finger full of cycling chamois butter. The good news is that there was no chaffage, less sweat and everything feels good now I’ve had a shower. The bad news is that the chamois butter is a bit stingy, but that was probably to be expected given that it said not to use on mucous membranes and that it had menthol in it! 😆 It was an interesting experience!

I have done that irritating thing of changing two variables, so which one made the difference, I don’t know. I can safely say I will not be using chamois cream again though. Hopefully my women’s body glide will turn up soon!

Thank you all.

I use the Boots generic silicone intimate lube for all my potentially chafing areas. It's only £5 plus it's designed for your fanny so you can deffo use it anywhere you need to.

I used to use bodyglide etc but tbh they are no better and you need a specialist shop or to buy online which is no good if you're in a hurry!