Aunt Vadge: I have to ride a bike tomorrow, but I’ve cut my labia

Hi Aunt Vadge, 

I have scratched the edge of my vagina and it hurts. How do I solve this – I have to ride a bike tomorrow.

Thanks xox
United Kingdom, Age 20

Dear Scratched,

Unfortunately there isn’t much you can do. If the scratch is on a moist section of the skin, it will be difficult to do much, but if the scratch is on the outside, you could possible get a sterile, clear sticky plastic bandage to cover and protect the area while you’re on your bike.

The only thing that you can do is to create a buffer between your vagina and the bike seat, and make it soft so there isn’t any (or limited) irritation. Do a few practice runs before your ride – wear layers, swap bike seats if yours is hard and the opportunity exists, and avoid too much sweat and friction where possible.

If it was a life or death bike riding scenario, there are possibly some anesthetic creams that could numb the area until you finish the ride. You can usually buy these in pharmacies – ask at the counter. Don’t put any of these creams into your vagina though. Outside only.

Sorry – we can’t be much help here! Good luck with your ride.

Warmest regards,
Aunt Vadge

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Jessica Lloyd - Naturopathic Practitioner, BHSc(N)

Jessica is a degree-qualified naturopath (BHSc) specialising in vulvovaginal health and disease, based in Melbourne, Australia.

Jessica is the owner and lead naturopath of My Vagina, and is a member of the:

• International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD)
• International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
• National Vulvodynia Association (NVA) Australia
• New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society (ANZVS)
• Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)

Read more about Jessica and My Vagina's origin story.

Latest posts by Jessica Lloyd - Naturopathic Practitioner, BHSc(N) (see all)

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