That sounds really painful — dealing with that many lesions at once, especially in such a sensitive area, is genuinely tough. It's great that you've already seen urgent care and are on antibiotics, and your gentle cleansing routine sounds solid. Here are some additional things that may help with relief:
For Pain
- Apply a Show Full Answer
That sounds really painful — dealing with that many lesions at once, especially in such a sensitive area, is genuinely tough. It's great that you've already seen urgent care and are on antibiotics, and your gentle cleansing routine sounds solid. Here are some additional things that may help with relief:
For Pain
- Apply a warm compress to lesions that look like they may be close to draining — this can help bring them to the surface and relieve pressure
- Use an ice pack on lesions that are swollen but not close to bursting, or on ones that have recently drained
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help — some doctors suggest taking both together at their maximum doses for a few days, but always confirm this with your provider first
- Topical numbing creams containing lidocaine, benzocaine, menthol, or pramoxine may offer some local relief For Wound Care & Comfort
- After lesions drain, coat them with petroleum jelly (like Vaseline), then cover with an absorbent non-stick pad and tape securely
- Sanitary pads or panty liners can be really helpful for absorbing drainage in that area without sticking painfully to wounds
- Change bandages regularly, especially if there's any odor
- Wear very loose-fitting clothing to minimize friction — some myHSteam members swear by women's boxers or boy shorts in this area
General Tips
- Keep the area as cool and dry as possible
- Avoid any scented products, dyes, or fragrances in laundry detergent or body products near affected areas
Having an emergency kit with these supplies on hand is a great idea for future flares too. Hang in there — the antibiotics should start helping soon! 💛
May 14
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