Vaginal Itching:
Vagina cleans itself with its natural secretions(discharge).
Vagina has an acidic pH and beneficial bacteria which helps fight infections and maintaining natural lubrication.
A healthy vagina normally secretes a small amount of discharge. It is due to the shedding of cervical and vaginal cells and is physiological and it is normal.
However, if there is excessive discharge or foul smelling or change in color or associated with itching or burning you should consult your doctor.
Vaginal itching is a very common and uncomfortable symptom that can happen due to many reasons like
- infection
- irritants
- chemicals
- dryness or menopause
- STD, stress and cancer can also cause itching
Most of the cases are not very serious and go away if the dryness and irritant is taken care of.
But if it is not improving and is disrupting your daily routine then you should consult your doctor.
Irritants- If the vagina is exposed to chemicals it can cause allergy or itchy rash
- Soap
- Sprays
- Douches
- Creams
- Ointment
- Detergent
- Scented toilet paper
- Synthetic undergarments
- Condom
- Sanitary napkin
Any of the above can act as irritant.
medical conditions : Diabetes or urinary incontinence may also cause vaginal irritation.
Skin disease– Like eczema, psoriasis or lichen sclerosis can cause itching
Infections :
Yeast infection– This is the most common cause of itching. It is accompanied by thick white curdy discharge
Bacterial Vaginosis– It happens due to imbalance between good and bad bacteria in vagina. It can cause itching, burning and abnormal foul smelling or fishy discharge
Chlamydia
Gonorrhoea
Genital herpes
Trichomoniasis
Menopause– Due to reduced estrogen levels, mucosa becomes thin ,dry which can cause irritation and itchiness
Stress – Can weaken the immune system and make you prone to infection causing itching
Vulvar cancer may have persisting itching for longer time .
When to see the doctor
If itching is severe enough to disrupt your daily life or sleep or if the following symptoms are present along with itching
- Rash, ulcer or blisters
- Pain and redness
- Swelling
- Foul smelling discharge
- Pain while passing urine
- Dyspareunia
Treatment – Most common cause is fungal and hence can be treated by anti fungal medication like cream, pessary or pills.
Antibiotics are needed in other infections. Estrogen cream or tablet can be used for menopause.
General measures
Balanced diet– having a balanced, nutritious diet and drinking plenty of fluids help in preventing vaginal problems. Adding yogurt to the diet which is rich in probiotics can be beneficial.
Use of condoms – Condom use during sex protects against STIs (sexually transmitted infections) like herpes, syphilis, gonorrhea, warts.
Regular gynaeccheck up – Pap smear screening is recommended starting around 21 years of age till 65 years if you are sexually active and then every 3 years.
Choose to clothe wisely– Some fabrics and tight-fitting clothes create a warm, moist environment in which yeast can thrive. Thus one should prefer cotton clothing and have a quick change out of wet swimsuits or workout clothes.
Good hygiene habits– One should always clean or wipe from front to back to avoid bacteria getting into the vagina. It also reduces the risk of bladder infection. Frequent changing of undergarments can also be done if one is experiencing a lot of discharge.
Good menstrual hygiene– One should regularly change sanitary pads and tampons during periods.
Avoid antibiotic overuse – Antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria in the vagina thus allowing yeast and other bacteria to grow.
Avoid perfumed soaps and body wash/gels – You can rinse the vulva with warm water or a plain gentle unscented soap.
Kegels exercises – They help in strengthening pelvic floor muscles and decrease strain on pelvic organs.
For appointment:
Gynecologist: Dr.Vindhya Gemaraju.
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