Vaginal Itching: Every Woman Should Know

Obstetrics and Gynaecology | Posted on 12/07/2022 by Dr. Tripti Dadhich

Do you experience vaginal itching often? Usually, when it is about down-there care, women believe that they got it entirely covered. They think that they know the do’s and don’ts of regular cleaning, but what ensues when there is a stint of vaginal itching?

The discomfort that occurs due to vaginal itching is unbearable and women keep experiencing this problem frequently. The worst thing about vaginal itching is not knowing the exact reason for what is causing it.

Vaginal itching usually is not a matter of concern but if not treated on time it can cause serious problems such as sexually transmitted infections and even vulvar cancer. However, as we already said, vaginal itching is quite common and occurs due to less serious factors such as hormonal changes, or irritating substances.

So, what causes vaginal itching? How to prevent or treat it? Don’t know? No need to worry, because we have got you covered. In this write-up, we will elaborate on everything related to vaginal itching so make sure to read till the end.

What is vaginal itching?

Vaginal itching is a reproductive condition among women and a sign of yeast infections and other vaginal infections such as sexually transmitted infections or STIs, itching in the vulva, and other surrounding areas. Women commonly experience the issue and experience inflammation and irritation around the vulva.

Vaginal itching and burning can signify an uncomfortable sign of varied health conditions. There can be different reasons for vaginal itching like chronic health problems, allergic reactions, and bacterial infections.

What causes Vaginal itching?

The vaginal itching causes vary and it is important to be mindful of these causes:

• Irritants

Chemical irritants are one of the most common vaginal itching causes that women experience. There are products we use on a daily basis such as dyes, fragrances, alcohol, etc. Products that involve chemicals causing vaginal infections are soaps, shower gels, bubble baths, feminine sprays, douches, contraceptives, creams, lotions, scented pads, liners, and scented toilet paper.

• Skin conditions

There are skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema that cause problems like itching and redness in the genital areas of women. It is important to get the treatment on time otherwise it can cause serious illness.

• Bacterial vaginosis

It is common to have a bacterium in the vagina but only if they are healthy as the wrong ones can cause a bad infection. There can be signs like inflammation, smelly odor, and discharge other than that of sexually transmitted infections.

• Sexually transmitted infections

This again is one of the vaginal causes among women as certain factors cause vaginal or vulva itching and irritation. These factors are chlamydia, genital herpes, genital warts, gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis.

• Menopause

During menopause, women tend to experience a reduction in the production of estrogen that happens at the end of the female’s reproductive years. It leads to causing the thinning and drying out of the vaginal walls. Hence, due to this women experience irritation and itching.

• Lichen sclerosus

It is among the rare conditions causing the production of white patches on the skin mainly on the vulva area. These patches can cause a scar on the vaginal area permanently.

Vaginal itching symptoms

The vaginal itching symptoms among women are quite noticeable and must not be ignored once noticed:

• Itching and burning are common symptoms of vaginitis or vaginal itching.
• Vaginal discharge is also often experienced by females when they have vaginal itching.
• There can be noticeable small cracks on the vulva skin.
• Females with vaginal itching can also experience blisters on the vulva that ends up bursting, crusting, or oozing.
• There can be redness and swelling as well on a vulva.
• Whitish patches on the vulva skin are also another vaginal itching symptom.
• Painful urination and pain during sexual intercourse are again common vaginal itching symptoms.
• There can be light spotting or vaginal bleeding.

These are the symptoms that commonly are experienced by females and may recommend several disorders or diseases that might affect genitals. It is important to get in touch with your doctor when you begin to notice the signs and symptoms.

Vaginal itching diagnosis

 The doctor will begin with understanding the cause of vaginal itching diagnosis and will ask you certain questions. Here is how the doctor will diagnose the problem:

• Firstly, he will begin by asking about the symptoms you are experiencing and understanding the seriousness of it. They will ask questions about sexual activities and then will conduct a pelvic exam.
• The doctor will begin with inspecting the vulva in the next step and involve using the speculum as it helps in getting a view of the vaginal insides. The doctor might also press down your abdominal area and insert the gloved finger into your vagina. It will assist the doctor in evaluating the reproductive system and checking for anomalies.
• The doctor will also initiate the diagnosis by taking the skin tissue sample from your vulva and the discharge sample for the final evaluation. He/she might also recommend the tests such as blood and urine.

How to treat Vaginal itching?

Vaginal itching treatment depends on the cause of vaginal itching and accordingly there will be treatment options. Here are some of the treatment options depending on the cause:

• Antifungal medications are given for the treatment of vaginal yeast infections. There are various forms like pills, ointments, creams, etc. This treatment should not be considered without the recommendation of a doctor.
• Antibiotics are recommended for the treatment of bacterial infections. This treatment also is given in various forms such as orally or in creams.
• For sexually transmitted infections, the treatment recommended involves antibiotics, antiparasitics, and antivirals. Your doctor might also suggest you abstain from sexual intercourse for some time.
• The treatment recommended to treat menopause involves tablets, vaginal ring inserts, and estrogen creams.
• If there are other vaginal itching causes, then most of them go away on their own. In the meantime, you can consider using lotions or steroid creams for reducing inflammation and easing the symptoms. However, make sure to get in touch with your doctor before using any of these.

Home remedies to prevent vaginal itching

There are certain home remedies you can use for vaginal itching treatment such as:

• Wash your vaginal area with warm water and make sure to use a gentle cleanser.
• Ensure not using lotions, bubble baths, and scented soaps.
• You must not use douches and vaginal sprays.
• Always make sure to wear cotton underpants.
• You must take care of using precautions when indulging in sexual intercourse.
• Get yourself regularly tested for sexually transmitted infections.

Final words

Vaginal itching can be one of the most uncomfortable situations for women but not usually is serious. However, it still requires on-time treatment and with certain lifestyle changes, one can reduce the chances of vaginal itching. If you think that the problem is severe and taking too much time to go away, then make sure to reach out to an expert healthcare provider. Always remember that you don’t have to feel embarrassed when consulting a doctor because you are not alone, usually every woman experiences the problem.

FAQs

Is vaginal itching normal?

Yes, vaginal itching among females is normal and has various probable causes. In a lot of cases, it happens because of clothing, fragrances, and menstrual products. Avoiding the usage of such products can help in preventing itching. On the other hand, there can be reasons like bacterial and fungal infections.

Can vaginal dryness cause itching?

Yes, vaginal dryness is important. Women's vaginal area releases natural lubricant as vaginal dryness can cause itchiness and soreness around the area. Women can also experience pain during sexual intercourse and while peeing. It is also possible to catch urinary tract infections with vaginal dryness.

Is coconut oil good for vaginal itching?

Yes, coconut oil is a good treatment option for the treatment of vaginal itching. However, it is important to ensure that the oil is applied only to the vagina’s external skin.