"Pruritus vulvae" means itching of the vulva, which is the skin area just outside the vagina. Most women experience a slight vulva itch now and again. However, pruritus vulvae means the itch is persistent and causes distress.

At Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children (CQHCWC), photodynamic therapy (PDT) is used to help women suffering from pruritus vulvae.

1. What is PDT?

PDT is also known as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) therapy. It mainly aims to achieve an anti-inflammatory and anti-itching effect by irradiating the affected area with light and repairing the affected tissue cells. The therapy is often administered in conjunction with drugs and massage treatments.

2. Is PDT really useful for pruritus vulvae treatment?

Absolutely.

However, there are many causes of pruritus vulvae. Primary diseases suffered by patients should also be treated while receiving PDT therapy. In daily life, patients should also pay attention to vulva cleaning, wear loose cotton pants, eat less spicy and sweet food and drink more water to promote healthy metabolism.

3. Does this treatment hurt?

The patient's affected area is massaged during the whole course of PDT, which is painless, non-invasive and without side effects.

4. Do patients need to apply medication to themselves after receiving this treatment?

No. Medics will administer anti-inflammatory and bacteriostatic drugs to patients at the end of treatment. Patients only need to wash the affected area with clean water after a certain period.

5. How long does a single treatment take?

30 minutes.

6. How can I make an appointment for the treatment?

First, you will need to make an appointment and visit your doctor in person. After your doctor assesses your condition, a prescription will be prepared for you to go to the PDT room for treatment.

PDT treatment location: Area B, third floor of the outpatient building, Ranjiaba branch of CQHCWC

Hours of operation: 8 am - noon; 2 pm - 5:30 pm (open on holidays)