Experiencing an itchy vagina? Is this normal?
It’s normal for people to feel itchy from time to time. It could be due to a rash, or something irritating the skin. But what if you have an itchy penis ? Should you be concerned right away? Learn about the possible causes and remedies for itchy penis, including effective remedies for genital itching.
Our vagina is one of the most sensitive parts of our body. That’s why when we feel something strange in this area, we feel anxious and have difficulty acting.
Let’s find out what are the possible causes of itchy genitals in women, and what can be done to relieve itchy genitals. Let’s start with effective remedies for itchy genitals and here are 12 reasons why genitals are itchy:
Possible causes of itchy vagina: Why does the vagina itch?
1. Effect of waxing, or shaving
The area around your genitals is very sensitive. So if you wax or shave it frequently, it’s possible that the skin will become irritated and you’ll end up with an itchy vagina.
The solution to this is to use creams or lotions that are effective in treating razor burn to protect your skin after waxing or shaving. You can also reduce the frequency of waxing and shaving, so as not to irritate your skin.
Effective medicine for itching of the penis | Image from Freepik
2. Beauty treatments
Nowadays, beauty treatments are not limited to the face. Different parts of the body also have their own treatments or effective remedies for itching in the vagina – including the vagina.
There are vaginal steaming and other masks that are placed on the woman’s vagina. But according to Mary Jane Minkin, clinical professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive sciences at Yale University, they are not necessary.
These types of treatments only cause irritation and itchy, painful pores. It’s best to avoid them altogether.
3. UTI
Having a urinary tract infection or UTI is also one of the causes of itchy penis. UTIs are usually contracted when bacteria enter the urinary tract, including the urethra, kidneys, ureters, and bladder.
Some of the symptoms of UTI are frequent urination, genital itching, a hot or painful feeling when urinating, or foul-smelling urine.
When you have a UTI, it’s a good idea to go to the doctor to get the right antibiotic that will cure your illness or an effective medicine for vaginal itching.
4. Hormonal changes at perimenopause
When your menstrual cycle arrives, hormones change your body. One effect of this is dry skin on your genitals.
Perimenopause , or the period before menopause, is also a cause of dry skin on the genitals. This is due to the decrease in estrogen levels in your body .
So it’s good to use gentle and unscented moisturizers to avoid dry skin and itchy genitals.
Effective medicine for female genital itching | Image from Freepik
Why the vagina is itchy: Other reasons why the vagina is itchy and painful
5. Lichen sclerosus: Itchy rash on the female genitalia
Lichen sclerosus is a type of skin disease like eczema and psoriasis. It is a white, itchy rash, often seen in the genital or anal areas of the body.
If you think you have this condition, it is best to consult a doctor so that you can be given the proper medication for this disease.
6. Pubic lice
Like head lice, pubic lice cause intense itching . The itching comes from the lice biting your skin, and also from the eggs they lay on your skin. This causes irritation, which is why people with pubic lice itch.
The solution to pubic lice is to use an anti-lice cream or lotion (like for head lice) and to properly wash and clean your bedding and the underwear and undergarments you wear.
But to be sure, it’s best to consult your doctor to find out what the fastest and most effective medicine is against pubic lice.
7. STD
Not all sexually transmitted diseases or STDs have symptoms of itching. But there are STDs, such as genital warts, that cause itching.
Genital warts are caused by the HPV virus, which changes the pH level in a woman’s vagina. This change causes dry skin and itching in the vagina.
Besides genital warts, other STDs that cause itching are chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes and trichomoniasis.
That’s why it’s important to see a doctor when experiencing severe genital itching, to make sure it’s not a symptom of a more serious illness.
8. Yeast infection
Yeast infection is caused by a type of fungus called CandidaThis is the most common cause of itchy vagina.
Its symptoms include a discharge that resembles cottage cheese, redness, and itching of the genitals.
Although it can be irritating, yeast infections are easy to treat, and all you need is an over-the-counter antifungal cream. If the infection is severe, it’s best to consult a doctor so they can prescribe stronger medication.
Effective medicine for genital itching | Image from Unsplash
9. Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis occurs when you try a new product on your skin, and your skin is not allergic to it. This results in dry skin and itching.
And of course, it also happens to the skin on a woman’s genitals. It often happens when you try a new napkin, feminine wash , shaving product, condom, or lubricant that your skin doesn’t like.
It’s best to avoid products with added perfumes or fragrances to prevent contact dermatitis. Bathing in Epsom salts, or using a cream containing OTC hydrocortisone, can also help to relieve itching.
10. Eczema or psoriasis: itchy rash on the female genitalia
Skin diseases can also cause itching in your vagina. These include eczema and psoriasis.
Eczema is caused by allergies or autoimmune problems. Symptoms of eczema and psoriasis include redness of the skin and intense itching .
Treatment for these diseases is long-term, and sometimes requires lifelong medication or use of skin-friendly products. It is also necessary to consult a dermatologist to determine the most appropriate treatment method.
11. Bacterial vaginosis
When a woman’s vagina has a pH imbalance and too many bacteria, she develops bacterial vaginosis . This condition is common in pregnant women.
But often the main symptom of bacterial vaginosis is not itching. You will often first have discharge, a foul odor, and an uncomfortable feeling in your vagina.
Image from iStock
Taking antibiotics and using over-the-counter medications can help relieve the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis.
12. Vulvar cancer
In rare cases, an itchy vagina can be a symptom of cancer. Vulvar cancer is a serious disease that starts in the vulva, the outer part of a woman’s genitals. This includes the inner and outer lips of the vagina, the clitoris, and the vagina.
Although not all cases of vulvar cancer show symptoms, if they do, they include abnormal bleeding, pain, or itching of the vagina.
Vulvar cancer is treatable if caught early. That’s why it’s so important to visit your gynecologist every year.
Why does a pregnant woman’s vagina itch?
Pregnant women often experience vaginal itching at some point during pregnancy. This is a normal and common occurrence.
Many things can cause genital itching during pregnancy. Some may be a result of the changes your body is going through. Other causes may be unrelated to your pregnancy.
Apart from the causes of itchy genitals mentioned above, Cholestasis can also be a cause of itchy vagina during pregnancy.
Cholestasis of pregnancy
This liver condition can occur late in pregnancy. Why it happens is not fully understood. Experts think it is connected to genetics and pregnancy hormones.
Cholestasis causes severe itching on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The itching can begin to affect your entire body, including your genital area.
Itchy vagina during pregnancy is usually nothing to worry about and can often be resolved with home treatments. However, during this time it may be wise to talk to your doctor about any troubling symptoms you are experiencing.
The door is itchy: What medicine?
It is important to see a doctor for vaginal itching if the itching is severe enough to disrupt your daily life or sleep.
Although most causes are not serious, a healthcare professional can help find and treat the root cause of your itchy genitals and offer advice or a prescription to find a medication for itchy genitals.
You should also contact your doctor if your vaginal itching persists for more than a week or if your itching is accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- itchy rashes on the female genitalia
- pain or tenderness in the genital area
- redness or swelling of the penis
- trouble urinating
- an unusual vaginal discharge
- discomfort during intercourse
Itchy genitals are uncomfortable but usually not serious. Often, an itchy genital will improve on its own with proper hygiene. If you are concerned, don’t hesitate to contact a doctor for appropriate treatment.
Proper genital care: medicine for itchy vagina
If you experience severe genital itching, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as a strange odor and discharge (other than clear white in color), pain, difficulty urinating, and a feeling that is distressing and interfering with your lifestyle, you need to consult your gynecologist.
To prevent having an itchy vagina, we need to practice proper care and cleaning of our genitals. Here are some things we should remember:
- Use warm water and mild soap, feminine wash or cleanser when washing your genitals.
- Avoid using scented soaps or lotions on this part of the body.
- Avoid using vaginal sprays and douches.
- Change underwear immediately after swimming or exercising.
- Use cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight bottoms.
- Make it a habit to change your underwear every day.
- Eat foods with live culture bacteria such as yogurt to reduce the chance of yeast infection.
- If you have sex, use protection such as a condom.
- When you defecate, make it a habit to wipe from the front, around the vagina, to the back, around the anus.
Remember, Mommies, don’t be shy about consulting your doctor if you notice something strange in your genitals or any part of your body.
Republished with permission from theAsianParent Philippines
