What is a labial fusion?
The inner surfaces of the labia adhere or stick together. It is also known as ‘labial fusion’.
What is the cause?
If the skin covering the labia becomes inflamed, the raw surfaces of the labia may then stick to each other.
What problems can labial fusion cause?
An inflammation called vulvitis can occur. Urine can pool behind the adhesion. Dribbling into the panties can be a problem.
Often labial adhesions do not cause problems.
How can a labial fusion be treated?
One option is to simply gently part the labia and applying petroleum jelly with a gently downward motion of the finger once or twice daily. This may gradually break down the adhesion and may cure the condition. The petroleum jelly helps stop the surfaces from sticking back together again.
If the fusion is long-standing it can be quite thick. The adhesion can then be very easily divided under a quick general anaesthetic. Separation of a labial fusion is a rapid solution to the problem. Daily application of Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, is required after the operation to prevent the fusion from recurring.
Oestrogen hormone cream can be effective in the treatment of labial fusion. Side effects from the hormone can occur with excessive or prolonged use of oestrogen cream.
What alternatives are there?
A labial fusion that is causing no concern or discomfort may be safely left untreated. The condition is self-limiting. At around puberty, with change in hormonal status and character of the skin, the labial adhesion will usually part.
What are some of the possible complications?
It is quite common for a labial fusion to recur after treatment.
To help prevent this petroleum jelly should be applied (as described above) for several months after the operation.
