Itching & Burning? It Might NOT Be a Yeast Infection (Vaginal Dermatitis Explained) | Episode 19

Send us Fan Mail If you've ever dealt with itching, burning, or irritation in your most sensitive areas and been repeatedly told it must be a yeast infection or BV, you are not alone. For many women, the real culprit isn't an infection at all—it's an allergic reaction. In this candid and crucial episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – are breaking the silence on a topic that is too often overlooked: vaginal and vulvar dermatitis. They dive into the surprising world of contact allergies that can affect intimate health, revealing common triggers you might never suspect, from toilet paper and wipes to the elastic in clothing and even the metals in dental braces! Learn about the specialized testing that can uncover these hidden allergens, practical solutions for relief, and why it's so important to advocate for yourself when treatments for common infections aren't working. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 00:09 Introduction to vaginal dermatitis and allergic reactions 01:13 Allergist perspective on treating vaginal issues 02:22 Case study: Metal allergy from braces causing symptoms 03:57 Understanding skin sensitivity and contact dermatitis 06:10 Diagnostic approach and treatment options 08:39 Important conversations about intimate health 11:44 Autoimmune conditions and vaginal health 14:36 Chronic infections and immune system involvement 17:18 Connection between allergies and vaginal symptoms WRITE A PODCAST REVIEW SEND US A SUGGESTION [email protected] ABOUT HOSTS KARA WADA, MD Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Youtube TikTok AMBER PATTERSON, MD Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network. Website Instagram Instagram Facebook Youtube MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life. Instagram Facebook