Teen with vulvitis

[hippospot]

DD aged 14 has been having sore, itchy, red vulva for a few months. Was examined a few months ago by a female GP who took swabs. Tested negative for thrush and BV. DD was really traumatised by the examination (GP was gentle and lovely but still).

So far things we have tried on GP's advice are:
Canesten HC for two weeks twice a day (no difference)
no soap
no knickers at night
changed to non-bio washing powder
more frequent change of undies
cotton undies (tbf she already wore only cotton)
avoiding leggings/jeans/tights completely
changing pads more often during period
using organic cotton pads
leaning forward more when peeing
taking probiotics
Vagisil (on pharmacist's advice) - didn't help

The next recommendation from GP is to sit in the bath every day for 10 mins with some white vinegar in the water (so that pH is closer to what it should be).

Can anyone please reassure me that they or their daughter managed to solve this issue, and how?

Thanks

Genital psoriasis? Have they not tried a steroid cream?

What toilet roll do you use? Lots are bleached to make them whiter which my gynaecologist said causes issues for lots of women.

Would she consider tampons?

Does she wear nail polish? If she’s irritated and then itching down there, this can make things worse.

And if all that doesn’t help, I would push for a referral to someone who specialises in vulval dermatology. There’s a few skin conditions it could be which can be treated but GPs aren't very knowledgable about. Poor girl, I really hope she’s feeling better soon.

Using dermol cream not lotion as a moisturising wash and epaderm as a moisturiser really helped get this viscous circle under control for
Us. Sometimes a steroid cream too when it really flares

@Fluffypastelslippers

Genital psoriasis? Have they not tried a steroid cream?

Exactly what I thought.

@Fluffypastelslippers @Maze76
The Canesten HC cream is a mild steroid and antifungal AFAIK.

DD tried the vinegar in bath water soak yesterday and it made her very sore. I will ask for referral to a dermatologist I think. The GP I spoke to was reading from a website over the phone - she was well-meaning but clueless about this.

I think a referral is the best bet at this point. To a gynae or dermatologist- gynaes can diagnose skin conditions there too. Seborrhoeic dermatitis can also occur there.

I'd also look at 1% steroid cream from chemist and try using a tiny pea sized amount. Your gp can prescribe it too.

Try aqueous cream instead of any type of soap or wash in that area. Would your dd be happy to try tampons as well? You could get the extra light mini ones.

Has she tried washing down there after going to the loo - just with plain water? Also has her urine been tested for sugar levels, infection etc?