Flexural psoriasis Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, January 2009.
Answers to questions about flexural psoriasis
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- Can I still have sex if I have genital psoriasis?
- Can I use deodorant if I have psoriasis in my armpits?
- Can I go swimming if I have psoriasis?
Can I still have sex if I have genital psoriasis?
Yes, you can still have sex if you have psoriasis affecting your genital area. Psoriasis is not infectious - you will not transmit it to your partner by having sex.
Explanation
Psoriasis affecting the genital skin can be very distressing and can put some people off having a sexual relationship. However, there is no medical reason why you cannot continue to have sex. You and your partner may find it helpful to seek reassurance from your GP or dermatologist.
Having sex can sometimes cause a flare-up of psoriasis in the genital area. Using a condom and lubricating jelly can help to prevent this. However, you may need to use non-latex condoms if you are using an ointment to treat genital psoriasis, as certain preparations can reduce the effectiveness of latex condoms.
Sources
- Psoriasis in sensitive areas. The Psoriasis Association. www.psoriasis-association.org.uk, accessed 4 June 2008
Can I use deodorant if I have psoriasis in my armpits?
Deodorants can occasionally aggravate psoriasis in the armpits. Different products are available that you may find you can tolerate, if you are reluctant to stop using deodorants altogether.
Explanation
Deodorants can sometimes trigger a flare-up of flexural psoriasis in the armpits. This is because deodorants contain chemicals that can irritate the skin.
Some deodorants are designed to be more suitable for sensitive skin (sometimes referred to as hypoallergenic) - they contain less of the chemicals that can cause irritation. They may also contain emollients to moisturise your skin.
It is difficult to predict which products you may be able to tolerate. Your dermatologist may be able to give you advice on which products to try.
Sources
- Cosmetics. British Association of Dermatologists. www.bad.org.uk, accessed 11 June 2008
Can I go swimming if I have psoriasis?
Yes. It is common to feel reluctant to go swimming if you have psoriasis. However, there is no reason why you can't swim because of psoriasis. It is not contagious.
Explanation
Many people find that swimming in a pool or using a hot tub can help their psoriasis, although some people may find lengthy bathing can increase itching and irritation.
The chlorine in a swimming pool may also dry out your skin, so it's a good idea to shower as soon as possible after being in a swimming pool with chlorine-removing shampoos and soap. You should also apply moisturiser after swimming.
Swimming in the sea is widely recognised to be beneficial to many people with psoriasis. This is probably mainly due to the associated exposure to sunlight.
Sources
- Frequently asked questions. National Psoriasis Foundation. www.psoriasis.org, accessed 12 June 2008
Related topics
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Dr Mike Ardern-Jones, BSc, MBBS, MRCP, DPhil, Consultant Dermatologist, Southampton University NHS Trust and Spire Southampton Hospital, and by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: January 2009
Flexural psoriasis factsheet
Visit the flexural psoriasis health factsheet for more information.
Rate this page
