More serious cases can involve tunnels (sinus tracts) under the skin.
Discomfort aside, these lesions can make a person feel self-consciousespecially without clothing.
This is an aspect of the condition that both dermatologists andmental health professionalsare increasingly focused on addressing.
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Your choice of underwear really matters.
Anything that pinches, rubs, rides up, or makes you sweaty down there should be avoided.
For fabric, think soft, breathable, moisture-wicking.
Beyond underwear, sleeping in loose-fitting cotton pajamas and avoiding tight jeans can help prevent hidradenitis suppurativa groin flare-ups.
Its best to be upfront about your bumps.
This also gives your partner time to fully process the information.
Rather, its resulting from an over-active immune system (and often ties to family history).
You could share how long youve had it, how its impacted your life, how its being treated.
If talking about HS and sex feels overwhelming, thisconversation guidemay help.
Friction is the enemy.
Now for some practical in-the-moment tips for having sex with HS.
Many people like using lubricant to reduce friction, which can lead to flare-ups in your groin area.
Your healthcare professional may have a recommendation.
Some people also find that using lubricated condoms helps reduce friction and discomfort during intercourse with HS.
Post-sex hygiene is important.
Even though poor hygienedoesnt cause HS, strategic hygiene can help reduce future flare-ups.
That includes taking the time to gently wash your groin area after sex.
Simple methods can help ease pain.
Some people find relief from applying a warm tea bag, briefly steeped, directly to a painful lesion.
Your mentality makes a huge difference.
Some therapists specialize in treating people living with chronic disease.
Worth noting:Researchshows that women with HS report fewer sexual challenges when they are in stable long-term relationships.
If you want that but have struggled to find it, therapy can help.
Shaving can cause more harm than good.
you could talk to your healthcare provider about this.
It might feel embarrassing at first, but we promise theyre not judging you.
Your healthcare provider can discuss ways to make sex with HS more comfortable.
Surgical interventions can also help with more severe HS, eliminating recurring lesions on your groin.
Enlist some virtual support.
When it comes to talking about any sexual challenge, anonymity can be a wonderful thing.
Thats where the Internet (and good-old Reddit) comes in so handy.
There are lots of online HS support groups, where you might get advice from people facing similar challenges.
As a first step, check out organizations like theHS FoundationandHope for HS.
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