Vaginal itching is an uncomfortable sensation that causes an uncontrollable urge to scratch the intimate area. This discomfort can vary in intensity and can be very annoying.
This itching is usually a result of vulvovaginitis, that is, inflammation of the vulva and vagina.
Therefore, vaginal itching is often accompanied by vulvar itching. It is also common to experience redness in the area, swelling, changes in vaginal discharge, and pain during sexual intercourse.
Another symptom that may appear is pain or burning when urinating, so women may initially think it is cystitis.
This burning and itching sensation can manifest itself as itching at the entrance of the vagina (external vaginal itching) or inside (internal).
The causes of this genital itching can be very diverse: from infections to contact dermatitis, to hormonal changes.
Therefore, it is essential to be able to determine the causes of vaginal itching to initiate appropriate treatment.
Vaginal itching can affect any woman, regardless of age. However, there are certain stages during which it tends to be more common, including breastfeeding and menopause.
The main causes of vaginal itching
In vaginal itching, the causes can be classified as infectious and non-infectious.
In the case of vaginal infections, fungi and bacteria are primarily responsible for vaginal itching and burning. However, they can also be caused by viruses or parasites.
- Fungal infections
Candidiasis is one of the most common causes of vaginal and vulvar itching and is caused by the proliferation of the fungus Candida albicans.
This infection is characterized by the presence of a thick, white vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese.
Vaginal candidiasis can affect any woman, but it is especially common during pregnancy due to the hormonal changes that occur.
Therefore, if you experience vaginal itching during pregnancy, a fungal infection is suspected. Even so, you should always consult your doctor if you experience itching or any other symptoms in the intimate area during pregnancy.
- Bacterial infections
Bacterial infections are another common cause of vaginal and vulvar itching. The bacteria responsible are usually group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus and  Staphylococcus aureus.
These bacteria can be naturally present in the vagina without causing problems. However, when they proliferate excessively, they disrupt the vaginal flora and can cause bacterial vaginosis.
Beyond vaginal itching, this infection is characterized by the presence of a watery, gray, white, or green discharge that is very foul-smelling. It is often described as having a fishy odor.
Other bacterial infections that cause vaginal itching include chlamydia and gonorrhea, which are sexually transmitted diseases.
- Parasitic infections
Another cause of vaginal itching may be the presence of parasites in the genital area.
These include trichomoniasis, pediculosis pubis (commonly known as pubic lice), and scabies (mange). All of these are sexually transmitted infections.
In girls, itching of the vulva and vagina may be caused by the presence of pinworms ( intestinal worms ).
Pinworms should be suspected when girls experience vaginal itching at night.
- Virus infections
Viral infections that cause vaginal itching are also often sexually transmitted diseases.
Among the most common are genital herpes, molluscum contagiosum, and condylomata acuminata.
Infections are a common cause of vaginal itching, as are hormonal changes or poor hygiene and intimate care habits.
- Vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness is a consequence of vaginal atrophy, a condition that occurs when estrogen levels decrease.
This is because these hormones are responsible for the lubrication and elasticity of the vaginal tissues.
Vaginal atrophy also causes thinning and inflammation of these tissues, which is why vaginal burning and itching are very common.
Vaginal dryness during menopause is well-known. However, it can occur at other stages. For example, vaginal itching and dryness can occur during pregnancy, postpartum, and while breastfeeding.
Vaginal itching may also occur before your period due to the drop in estrogen levels during that part of your cycle.
- Contact dermatitis
Hygiene products may contain ingredients that irritate the vaginal mucosa, causing vaginal itching.
These include soaps, shower gels, creams, lubricants, intimate deodorants, sanitary napkins, tampons, condoms, laundry detergents and fabric softeners, and even toilet paper.
Sweat, wearing tight clothing, sitting for long periods, and excessive hygiene are other factors that can promote vaginal itching and burning.
Sometimes, even certain fragrances or preservatives can cause an allergic reaction that also manifests itself with vaginal itching.
Other causes of vulvovaginal itching in infants and young children include irritation from contact with urine and feces. This is known as diaper rash.
Vulvovaginitis is also common in girls due to poor hygiene after using the bathroom or taking bubble baths.
- Skin diseases
Several dermatological conditions can cause vaginal itching. Among the most common are lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, and lichen simplex chronicus.
Itching in the vaginal area may also occur if you suffer from skin conditions such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis.
How to relieve vaginal itching
Preventing and relieving vaginal itching is often possible simply by making changes to your hygiene and intimate care habits.
However, in some cases, it is necessary to resort to other treatments.
So, here are the top five tips for soothing vaginal itching when it occurs.
1) Treat the cause of vaginal itching
For vaginal itching, treatment will vary depending on the cause.
In the case of candidiasis, antifungal medications will be prescribed , while for bacterial vaginosis, the use of antibiotics will be necessary .
If the itching is due to vaginal atrophy due to menopause or postpartum, estrogen creams may be prescribed.
In the case of vaginal itching due to irritation or allergies, the key is to avoid the triggering factor.
Finally, if there is a skin disease that causes genital itching, it is important to follow the indicated treatment guidelines.
2) Use creams for vaginal itching
There are various creams for vaginal itching that provide quick and effective relief.
On the one hand, there are moisturizing products for both the vulva (external) and vaginal (internal) areas. These usually come in cream form, but are also available in vaginal suppositories, oils, or mists.
On the other hand, some lubricating creams or gels imitate a woman’s cervical mucus.
Both types of products are very effective in combating vulvovaginal irritation, dryness, and itching that can be caused by menopause, breastfeeding, or the use of oral contraceptives.
In the case of lubricating gels, these also help prevent pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse.
The main ingredient in these products is usually hyaluronic acid , thanks to its moisturizing, regenerating and lubricating properties.
3) Take cold water baths
In cases of vaginal itching, home remedies can be very counterproductive. However, sitz baths with cold water can reduce pain and itching.
These baths should be done in a sitting position with the water covering only the genital area in a bathtub, bidet, or large basin.
Vaginal douching should never be performed, as it can cause irritation and alter the pH of the mucosa.
Another home remedy for vaginal itching can be applying cold to the genital area, as well as rinsing the area with warm water.
4) Avoid scratching
Vaginal itching can make the urge to scratch very difficult to suppress.
However, it should be noted that scratching often worsens the irritation and, therefore, causes more itching.
In addition, scratching can cause scratches and wounds and increase the risk of infection.
5) Use medications to relieve itching
Sometimes the above measures may not be enough to relieve vaginal itching.
If so, drugs such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, or topical anesthetics (benzocaine) may be prescribed.
Especially when genital itching interferes with daily activities, sleep, and/or the urge to scratch is difficult to control.Â
How to prevent vaginal itching
Beyond relieving vaginal itching, it’s also important to take steps to prevent it from recurring.
1) Have good hygiene and intimate care habits
Genitals should be washed with water only, without rubbing. If you want to use gels for the external area, they should be gentle cleansers specifically designed for intimate hygiene.
Any product containing fragrances, preservatives, or other irritating or allergenic substances should be avoided.
It’s recommended to regularly use moisturizing and lubricating creams or gels for the intimate area, as well as during sexual intercourse, to minimize friction.
As for babies and little girls, their diapers need to be changed frequently.
2) Prevent vaginal infections
To prevent vaginal infections, the intimate area should be kept clean and dry. A warm, humid environment favors the growth of fungi and bacteria, so it should be avoided.
Therefore, you should dry your genitals thoroughly after showering and avoid staying in wet clothing (swimsuits or sportswear) for too long.
It’s important that underwear be made of cotton and changed as often as necessary. It shouldn’t be too tight, either, as this can reduce breathability and contribute to moisture retention.
If it is too tight, it can also cause friction and irritate the genitals.
Another thing to avoid is the daily use of panty liners.
Finally, when going to the bathroom, always wipe from front to back and not the other way around.
It is preferable not to use panty liners every day and instead change your underwear as often as necessary.
When it comes to sexual relations, it is important to take measures to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
3) Reduce stress
Stress-related itching is a well-known condition that can affect the genital area.
If so, the itching often creates even more stress, leading to a worsening of both the itching and other symptoms.
This is why it is so important to take steps to reduce stress.
4) Take care of your diet
A balanced diet influences the proper functioning of the immune system and overall health.
Conversely, a diet high in refined sugars can promote yeast overgrowth, as in candidiasis.
Probiotic foods or supplements, for their part, can help maintain the balance of the vulvovaginal microbiota.
It is also essential to stay hydrated by drinking enough fluids.
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