STDs That Can Cause Annoying Dry Skin Down There

Common STDs That Cause Dry Skin

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial STD that targets mucous membranes, like those in the genitals and rectum. For women, chlamydia often infects the cervix. As the bacteria proliferate, they damage cells and spur inflammation.

This swelling and irritation reduces normal vaginal lubrication, leading to dryness and pain during sex. The cervix may also appear dry and inflamed upon examination.

Gonorrhea

Like chlamydia, gonorrhea stems from a bacterial infection of mucous membranes. It spreads through unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex with an infected partner.

An inflamed urethra or cervix from gonorrhea can cause drying and discomfort during urination or intercourse. Sores may additionally arise on the genitals.

Trichomoniasis

Also called "trich", this common STD results from the parasitic protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis. It primarily impacts the vagina and urethra in women and the urethra in men.

The protozoan causes genital inflammation, discharge, and itching. This can leave the vulva and vaginal opening feeling dry and irritated.

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes comes from the highly contagious herpes simplex virus. It leads to outbreaks of painful sores or blisters on genital skin and mucous membranes.

As the blisters break and crust over, they leave the surrounding skin parched, tight, and cracked. Dry patches often emerge during recurrences.

Genital Warts

The human papillomavirus (HPV) triggers genital wart growths around the genitals and anus. Wart lesions themselves don't turn the skin dry.

However, treatments to remove them often cause irritation, redness, and flaking as the skin heals. Freezing and laser therapy for genital warts in particular provoke dryness.

Pubic Lice

Pubic lice, or "crabs," are tiny parasites that infest pubic hair. Their bites instigate severe itching and rashes.

In response to scratching and inflammation from lice bites, the groin skin can become dry, scaly, and hyperpigmented.

Scabies

Scabies mites burrow into the skin and lay eggs, triggering intense itching and a pimply rash.

The mites favor warm regions like genital skin folds. As you scratch, the areas turn red and rough with dry, flaky patches.

Syphilis

At its early stages, syphilis may produce a single painless sore at the infection site. In secondary syphilis, a diffuse rash then appears.

These rashes can arise anywhere, but often impact moist genital regions. As they resolve, the involved skin may temporary feel tighter and drier.

What Causes the Dryness?

STDs provoke dry skin through various mechanisms, like:

Inflammation

Many STDs generate inflammation as your immune system reacts. This leads to swelling, redness, heat, and irritation that upsets the normal moisture balance.

Skin Damage

The infectious organisms directly attack and degrade epithelial cells and membranes. Disrupting the skin structure impairs its protective abilities.

Discharge & Drainage

Increased discharge from the urethra or vagina, as well as fluid leaking from open sores, can make the skin feel drier.

Treatment Side Effects

Certain medications like antibiotics alter skin pH and microbial balance. Topical wart and lice treatments also dry out the skin as they work.

Scratching & Rubbing

Itching from STDs prompts scratching that further dries skin. And friction from rubbing can worsen flakiness.

Other Causes of Genital Dryness

While STDs commonly provoke dryness, other possible reasons include:

Allergies

Allergic reactions to soaps, creams, clothing, latex, and other products can create genital irritation and inflammation.

Yeast Infections

Overgrowth of Candida yeast disrupts normal moisture and pH, potentially causing dryness.

Menopause

Declining estrogen during perimenopause and menopause often leads to vaginal dryness and atrophy.

Medications

Drugs with antihistamine or decongestant effects reduce mucus secretions and moisture.

Chemicals

Swimming in chlorinated pools, using scented soaps and laundry detergents, and douching can irritate and dry out the genitals.

Clothing & Fabrics

Wearing tight pants, synthetic fabrics, and thongs may provoke friction and worsen dryness.

Seeking Treatment

Don't ignore STD-related dry skin and discomfort. Consult a doctor or visit a sexual health clinic for evaluation. You'll likely undergo the following:

Medical History

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, sexual activity, partners, and risk factors.

Physical Exam

The doctor thoroughly examines your genitals for signs of STDs, discharge, warts, rashes, and skin abnormalities.

Testing

Lab tests check for STDs through urine samples, blood draws, or genital swabs. Testing identifies the exact infection.

Diagnosis

Your doctor diagnoses the causative STD based on symptoms, exam findings, test results, and response to initial treatment.

Medical Treatments for Dry Skin

Treatment focuses first on curing the underlying STD with antibiotics, antivirals, or antiparasitic pills. For associated dryness, your doctor may recommend:

Topical Estrogen

Vaginal estrogens reverse dryness and irritation by replenishing thinning tissues.

Moisturizers

Hypoallergenic lotions and emollients boost moisture levels in the vulva and surrounding skin.

Sitz Baths

Sitting in shallow warm water soothes the perineum and provides moisture.

Prescription Anti-Itch Creams

Corticosteroid creams and antihistamine gels calm itching and inflammation that worsens dryness.

Oral Antihistamines

Pills like cetirizine or loratadine inhibit histamine to reduce genital itching and scratching.

Home Remedies for Dryness

You can also try these home remedies to provide relief:

Cool Compresses

Applying cool cloths or compresses to irritated areas can impart soothing moisture.

Aloe Vera Gel

Pure aloe vera gel is a natural humectant that hydrates and calms itchy, flaky skin when applied externally.

Coconut Oil

This plant oil moisturizes dry skin while offering antimicrobial benefits. Use pure, unrefined coconut oil.

Oatmeal Baths

An oatmeal soak moisturizes and protects parched, sensitive tissues.

Humidifier

Using a humidifier adds hydration to genital tissues and prevents further drying.

Cotton Underwear

Wearing breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics prevents friction and sweat buildup.

Protecting Your Skin

Practice proper hygiene and skin care to prevent recurrence of dryness:

• Gently cleanse with mild, fragrance-free soaps
• Rinse and pat dry instead of rubbing
• Apply moisturizer and anti-itch cream daily
• Wear cotton underwear and loose, breathable clothes
• Avoid potential irritants and allergens

Also, use protection during sex and get tested regularly to avoid contracting STDs that can disrupt normal genital skin moisture and health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.