Do you ever notice that when the delicate regions of the vagina, clitoris, and vulva get inflamed and irritated, it can really mess up your entire day? Vaginal itching can be quite painful and cause extreme discomfort, but it’s something that many women experience.
There are numerous potential factors that can lead to vaginal irritation, including bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted diseases, yeast infections, or even menopause.
The usage of chemical irritants like creams, douches, and condoms can also contribute to vaginal itching. Additionally, many women are sensitive to contraceptive foams, fabric softeners, laundry detergents, and scented toilet paper.
A condition called lichen sclerosis can result in the formation of white patches on the skin around the vulva and cause scarring in the vagina.
So, how can a woman determine if her symptoms are abnormal?
Normally, the vagina produces a discharge that ranges from clear to milky white. This discharge is produced by the glands in the cervix and vaginal walls and can have a thick, thin, or pasty consistency. Normal vaginal discharge may have a mild odor or no odor at all. However, when it’s exposed to air, it tends to turn white or yellow.
If you don’t have an infection, the vaginal itching might go away on its own. An allergy to soaps and scented toilet paper can be easily resolved by avoiding these products, especially in the vicinity of your vagina. However, if you have foul-smelling vaginal discharge accompanied by a change in color, it’s possible that you have an infection. Abnormal discharge can be thick, white, clumpy, green, or yellowish, and it may emit an unpleasant odor.
Potential Causes of Vaginal Itching
When you experience itchiness in that area, you might assume it’s a yeast infection and reach for antifungal medication. Alternatively, you might suspect that your new underwear or laundry detergent is the culprit. However, vaginal itching can be caused by various factors, and each case needs to be treated individually.
The terms “vulva” and “vagina” are often used interchangeably, but here we will explore the possible causes of itching in both the vulva and vagina.
1. Irritants and Allergies
When certain substances like soap, bubble baths, feminine sprays, detergents, scented toilet paper, or fabric softeners come into contact with the skin around and inside the vagina, they can cause discomfort and an irresistible urge to scratch the area. Moreover, these substances are known irritants and can contribute to vaginal itching.
Using scented tampons or pads is not recommended as they can make you feel itchy and irritated in your vaginal area.
Even using a different type of soap for bathing or laundry purposes can trigger a reaction in your vagina. That’s why it’s advised to avoid excessive douching or cleaning of your vagina, so as not to introduce more irritants to the area.
If you experience itching or burning in your vagina after using menstrual or hygiene products with added fragrances, it’s important to stop using them immediately. If the symptoms persist, seeking assistance from a doctor is crucial.
2. Skin Problems
Sometimes, individuals may experience redness and itching in their vaginas due to skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. For instance, people with allergies or asthma may develop a skin condition called eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, which can cause a red and scaly rash.
Psoriasis is a skin problem that can cause itchiness and redness in the scalp and joints. It can also occur in the genital area and is a common issue faced by many people.
3. Yeast infection
Yeast is a type of fungus that is typically found in the vagina. In normal circumstances, it doesn’t pose any problems, but if it overgrows, it can lead to a vaginal yeast infection. This common condition affects approximately 75% of women at least once.
On occasion, an infection may develop after completing a course of antibiotics. This can cause an overgrowth of yeast, resulting in symptoms such as itching, burning, and a thick discharge in the vagina.
4. Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, and harmful bacteria outnumber the beneficial ones, similar to a yeast infection. However, unlike a yeast infection, symptoms may sometimes go unnoticed. Nevertheless, symptoms can include vaginal itchiness and a malodorous, grayish, or white discharge.
5. Sexually transmitted disease (STD)
Engaging in unprotected sex can lead to various sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital warts, genital herpes, and trichomoniasis. These can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as abnormal growth, green or yellow vaginal discharge, pain during urination, and not limited to vaginal itching.
6. Pubic lice
Pubic lice are minuscule, crab-like insects that can cause intense itching in the pubic and heavily-haired regions. While they typically infest the pubic hair, they can also be found in other areas with substantial hair growth.
Over-the-counter lice-killing lotions can be used to eliminate them, but it is advisable to consult a doctor for a prescription to ensure proper treatment.
7. Urinary tract infections (UTI)
UTIs are bacterial infections that can occur in any part of the urinary tract, including the kidneys, urethra, ureters, and bladder. UTIs can cause pelvic pain, a frequent urge to urinate, pain during urination, and cloudy, foul-smelling urine.
If the infection is near the urethra, it can cause severe itching and irritation. It is important to make an appointment with your doctor if you experience the aforementioned symptoms and refrain from self-treating with over-the-counter medications.
8. Jock itch
Although the name may not sound pleasant, jock itch, or tinea cruris, can sometimes cause itching in the vaginal area. It is similar to an athlete’s foot, which often occurs when sharing towels or undergarments, but in this case, it affects the groin area.
The itching is typically around the thighs and groin, so if you are experiencing irritation within the vagina, it is unlikely to be jock itch.
However, if you notice persistent redness or irritation in these areas that do not improve, it is advisable to visit a doctor for further evaluation.
9. Lack of estrogen
As our bodies undergo changes with age, a decrease in estrogen levels can lead to thinning of the skin around the genital area, resulting in discomfort, itching, or discharge. This can occur during menopause or while breastfeeding. However, using vaginal lubricants or low-estrogen products can provide relief in such situations.
10. Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids occur when the veins around the rectum become swollen, causing itching and irritation in both the rectal and vaginal areas. If you experience itching not only around the vagina but also near the anus, it may be a sign of hemorrhoids.
To alleviate the symptoms of hemorrhoids, you can try home remedies such as aloe vera or maintain good hygiene. Over-the-counter ointments are also available. However, if you experience persistent itching and rectal bleeding, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.
11. Skin irritation in or around your vulva
The vagina is not immune to skin conditions. Certain skin conditions can cause changes in the skin, such as whitening and itching. Additionally, conditions like contact dermatitis or folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) can occur around the vagina. Therefore, if you notice a red, itchy, and even painful skin rash, it could be a sign of a skin condition. Treatment may involve the use of a steroid ointment like hydrocortisone, as recommended by Dr. Zanotti.
12. Vaginal atrophy
During and after menopause, some women may experience vaginal atrophy, a condition characterized by thinning of the vaginal tissue due to a decrease in estrogen production. This can cause discomfort, including itching, pain, dryness, and urinary issues.
The likelihood of experiencing vaginal atrophy increases as women go through menopause. Additionally, certain breast cancer treatments like chemotherapy can have a similar effect. Fortunately, vaginal moisturizers are available to alleviate discomfort.
It is important to note that lubricants and moisturizers serve different purposes. Lubricants are used during sex for temporary relief, while moisturizers provide longer-lasting effects.
13. Vulvar cancer
Vulvar cancer is not a common form of cancer, it primarily affects older women, with an average age of 65 at the time of diagnosis. However, individuals with vulvar cancer may experience itching, burning, or discomfort in the vulva area.
If you have persistent itching, it is worth consulting a doctor to determine the cause. While it is unlikely to be cancer, your doctor can help identify the issue and provide relief for your symptoms.
14. Spermicide or condoms
Sometimes, the products used during sexual activity can cause itching. This could be due to an allergy to latex or a reaction to a chemical present in condoms or lubricants. While most people do not have latex allergies, alternatives such as polyurethane condoms can be considered.
If you frequently experience vaginal itching after sex, it is advisable to avoid certain ingredients.
15. Stress
Stress can sometimes lead to certain habits, such as scratching the head or biting nails. It is not uncommon for individuals to rub their vaginas as a way to self-soothe when stressed. However, this can create a cycle of itching and scratching, which can result in microtears in the vaginal area and exacerbate itching.
Dr. Ross emphasizes that while this is a common problem, individuals may feel hesitant to discuss it with their doctors. Nevertheless, she suggests bringing it up, as finding alternative ways to manage stress or seeking assistance from a mental health expert can be beneficial.
Other symptoms
It is essential to seek medical attention if you have persistent vaginal itching that does not improve within a week. Seeking help is crucial if you experience additional symptoms alongside itching, such as:
- Difficulty urinating
- Discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Genital redness or swelling
- Pain or tenderness in the genital area
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Ulcers or blisters on the vulva
Treatment of Vaginal Itching
After determining the cause of your vaginal itching, your doctor will suggest appropriate treatment methods. The treatment plan will vary depending on the specific condition causing the itching. (per Healthline)
1. Vaginal yeast infections
Antifungal medications, such as suppositories, creams, ointments, or pills, are commonly used to treat vaginal yeast infections. These medications can be obtained with a doctor’s prescription or purchased over the counter from a drugstore.
If you have not received a diagnosis from a doctor, it is advisable to consult a medical practitioner before using any over-the-counter treatments.
2. BV
In the case of bacterial vaginosis (BV), doctors usually prescribe antibiotics for treatment. These antibiotics can be taken orally in the form of pills or applied as creams inserted into the vagina. It is crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, even if you start feeling better before finishing them.
3. STIs
If you contract a sexually transmitted infection (STI), your doctor may prescribe medication to aid in recovery. The type of medication prescribed will depend on the specific STI you have. To ensure proper treatment, your doctor may also advise you to abstain from sexual activity until you are fully healed.
4. Menopause
During menopause, women experiencing itching can use tablets, estrogen cream, or vaginal ring inserts to alleviate the symptoms.
Other causes
In some cases, mild itching or discomfort in the vagina may resolve without specific treatment. However, if you are uncomfortable, you can use special creams or lotions to help alleviate symptoms. It is important to follow the instructions precisely and discontinue use if symptoms worsen.
Proper self-care practices can also help prevent these issues from occurring in the first place.
How to Prevent Vaginal Itching
To maintain a healthy genital area and prevent vaginal itching, consider the following measures:
- Use warm water and a gentle cleanser, such as Tielle Nectar wash, when washing your genital area.
- Avoid using scented soaps, lotions, and bubble baths.
- Vaginal sprays and douches are unnecessary as your natural scent is perfect.
- After swimming or exercising, change out of wet clothing promptly.
- Wear cotton underwear and change it daily.
- Use a barrier method like condoms during sex.
- It is essential to get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and encourage your partners to do the same.
- When wiping after using the toilet, remember to wipe from front to back. This helps prevent bacteria from your feces from coming into contact with your vulva and vagina.
Conclusion
Vaginal itching can be uncomfortable but can often be prevented. In many cases, an itchy vagina or vulva can improve with lifestyle changes and avoiding triggers. Maintaining proper feminine hygiene and scheduling routine check-ups with your ob-gyn is also important.
Read More: How to Stop Itching Down There: Effective Remedies and Tips