Key Points
- Vaginal itching is often caused by irritating clothing or using the wrong soap or detergent.
- In some cases, vaginal itching can be indicative of an infection or STD.
- Always consult your physician if your vaginal itching is severe or persistent.
Vaginal itching is definitely a very personal itch. It is difficult to stop yourself from scratching an itch, but what do you do when the itch is in a very sensitive area?
Vaginal itching can be a source of great physical discomfort and embarrassment. Don’t feel alone; most women at one time or another suffer from the same ailment. That most personal kind of itch is caused by a variety of reasons. But first, let’s tackle what exactly is going on ‘down there’.
A persistent itching of the vagina and surrounding areas is defined as a tingling, uneasy irritated and itchy sensation in the vagina itself or the areas adjacent, like the vulva.
What Causes It?
There are a wide variety of causes. Some of the most common are simple skin irritations. Your private areas have some of the most sensitive skin on your body. Bath soaps, fragrances, detergents, and dyes that won’t irritate the skin on other parts of your body often are a cause for vaginal distress. Even products made for use in your feminine areas like douches, feminine sprays, contraceptive creams, or jellies can be the culprit.
Other causes are not so innocent. Itching can be a sign of a yeast infection or vaginitis. Both of these conditions have other symptoms, such as increase or change of the appearance and smell of vaginal discharge, fever, and/or pain. Sexually transmitted diseases also cause vaginal itching.
Menopause, with the decrease in vaginal moisture, can also precipitate itching.
Stress, plain and simple, can manifest itself through itching sensations over the whole body, including your most sensitive areas.
Get Relief from Vaginal Itching
To find relief from itching caused by simple irritation switch soaps, detergents and bubble baths. Instead of using colored or fragrance-laden products opt for more natural options. Keep the vagina clean and dry. Wear undergarments that allow the skin in the crotch area to breath. Cotton fabrics are a great choice: light, absorbent and natural. Even colored toilet paper can cause irritation. Remember allergies, or irritants, often build up over time. It may be that the product you have used for years now needs to go to get rid of vaginal itching!
Try washing undergarments separately, and rinsing them very well. The best cure for stress related itch is to learn to relax. This is always easier said than done. Go for a walk, watch a favorite movie. Basically pamper yourself for a bit.
Should I Ever Be Concerned About Vaginal Itching?
If the itch is accompanied by a foul smell, fever, or a change in discharge, consult your doctor. In these cases, prescription medication may be needed to clear up a yeast infection or STD. Your doctor may also have products to help with vaginal itching caused by menopause.
In a case where vaginal itching has become unbearable, consult your physician. They may have recommendations for you that are tailored to your particular situation. If the itching becomes a burning sensation, it's important to speak to a doctor. This could indicate a more severe problem. Any vaginal itching that persists for more than a couple of weeks should be seen to by a doctor.
Often, simple lifestyle changes are sufficient to relieve vaginal itching. In most cases, vaginal itching is no reason for concern. It's often caused by using the wrong soap or detergent. It's important to keep an eye on it, though, in case it gets worse or doesn't improve with certain changes.
Do not take the content of this article as professional medical advice. It's important to exercise due diligence when obtaining relevant information in matters pertaining to your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.