Dear doctor;

I usually get sores on my private parts before my periods. What could be the reason for this?

Tracy

Dear Tracy,

Sores on private parts can be due to various kinds of infection. Infection can occur due to dampness during menses or wearing damp undergarments, poor menstrual hygiene, having sex with an infected partner and urinary tract infections. All these can cause and aggravate genital infections.

Infection by herpes simplex virus is a common cause for genital sores. Once the virus enters pelvic parts, it can be shed and multiply there, thus causing recurrent sores. Fungal infections can cause itching while scratching by nails can cause secondary bacterial infection and painful sores. Since these infections are chronic and relapsing, the sores can also recur. Inflammation of the ducts of cervix and vagina can also manifest as small sores or abscess. All these conditions are curable.

Allergy to some cream, lotion or sanitary pad can as well manifest as sores.

Have you heard of Psoriasis? This is a skin condition that causes itching and sores can occur due to scratching. It occurs intermittently and sores can be only on genital parts. Eczema dermatitis can occur over private parts as anywhere in the body. It manifests as dry or wet sores, along with itching and or mild pain.

Keeping good personal and menstrual hygiene, indulging in safe sex, drinking much water can help prevent these problems. For the present it is advisable that you consult a gynecologist and take suitable treatment after ascertaining the cause.

Dr Rachna Pande  is a specialist in internal medicine at Ruhengeri Hospital