<i>Background:</i> Many different materials are used in the perineal area, making it liable to contact sensitisation. <i>Objective:</i> We report the results of a retrospective study of patients with perineal dermatoses involving the vulva investigated for possible contact allergy. <i>Methods:</i> 240 female patients with dermatoses in the perineal area, specifically including the vulva, were patch tested to our standard series and a special patch test series devised for perineal problems. <i>Results:</i> 79 out of 240 patients (32.9%) demonstrated relevant positive results. These related to medicaments (49 patients), perfumes (22 patients), cosmetics (5 patients), dyes (4 patients) and rubber (4 patients). <i>Conclusions:</i> Perineal dermatoses involving the vulva may require patch testing to identify suspected and unanticipated contact allergy. An extended comprehensive series of patch test allergens will be necessary in these cases.