Tips for Managing Genital Psoriasis
No one likes to talk about it. Why would they? As if living with a visible skin condition wasn't enough, psoriasis can appear in some pretty embarrassing and blush-inducing places. Yes, I'm talking about genital psoriasis.
Giggle or shuffle in your seat all you want. Genital psoriasis is a reality of psoriasis management and an important symptom to treat.
You do not have to be ashamed of your genital psoriasis
If you're holding shame and embarrassment due to your genital psoriasis, I give you permission to let that go. It's not worth deprioritizing your health because you feel a touch uncomfortable. I'd say the physical discomfort outweighs that.
Genital psoriasis includes areas exactly where you may think. It covers and appears on the areas of your skin around the upper thighs, the public landscape, and the crease between your thighs and your buttocks. Genital psoriasis is its own unique type of pain.
What is the difference between genital psoriasis and inverse psoriasis?
Genital psoriasis can also be labeled as inverse psoriasis - which is a type of psoriasis that affects the skin folds. Where do most skin folds appear? Well, in pretty intimate and private parts of our bodies.
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View all responsesIt appears different than the traditional plaque psoriasis that people are used to seeing on the outside of our skin, perhaps on our elbows and scalp. Inverse psoriasis is smooth and can appear as bright red or shiny purple patches.
What are the symptoms of genital psoriasis?
Genital psoriasis is a severe symptom that needs to be taken seriously. Symptoms include severe itching in those intimate areas, excessive sweating, intense burning, and physical limitations, meaning you may not be able to move or walk as quickly because the pain is so intense.
Please talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. You deserve relief, and your doctor can help. Practice what you want to say. Write it down if it helps you feel less embarrassed. Find a communication method that works for you, lean into the awkwardness, and prioritize your health.
Tips for treating your genital psoriasis
Listen, I've been there. Genital psoriasis is not an easy thing to manage or talk about. I promise you, though, it's nothing to be ashamed of. I'm happy to share some simple tips to reduce pain and carry on throughout your daily life.
Moisturize, of course.
Avoid wearing tight-fitted clothing as it may irritate the skin. Make sure to wear loose-fitting clothes, especially your underwear. Always apply fragrance-free and alcohol-free products to the skin. Avoid using antibacterial soaps. Try using a gentle and fragrance-free cleanser.
Bathroom trips
Use soft toilet paper and wipe very gently. To ease a bowel movement and make the process of excretion less painful, try eating a diet rich in fiber content.
Soothing options
Another tip that might help is to apply cool compresses in dry or patchy areas. My go-to has always been Vaseline.
Treatment options for genital psoriasis
If your inverse psoriasis worsens in the genital areas, immediately contact your doctor and get appropriate treatment!
Other treatments to manage the symptoms of genital psoriasis include steroids and vitamin D creams. Ultraviolet therapies have also been used with patients to deal with genital symptoms of psoriasis. However, a doctor can only take or prescribe any medical treatment.
I know this is easier said than done, but don't scratch. It just makes the area so much worst.
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