Itching can be pretty uncomfortable and can occur anywhere on the body. However, if itching develops in a place that is as sensitive as the vaginal and vulvar regions, it can be very annoying and uncomfortable. Even though an itchy vagina is not a cause for alarm, itching that persists for an extended period may indicate a more severe condition. The following is a list of common reasons for an Itchy vagina.
Reasons for An Itchy Vagina
Here are the most common reasons behind an itchy vagina:
1. Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is an infection that can happen when you smoke, have sex without protection, or douch. When you douche, you mess up the natural bacteria in your vagina, and new sex partners can do the same. Bacterial vaginosis can also be caused by the use of scented soaps, lotions, and perfumes. This infection can also be spread through anal sex, the Intravenous drug birth control device, swimming in pools, and using public restroom seats.
Because the balance of bacteria in your vagina is delicate, it is vital to take precautions to keep it healthy. You can replace the good bacteria in your body and avoid using scented products near your vagina. Bacterial vaginosis causes a thin, white, grey, or green discharge and a burning feeling when you go to the bathroom. There is also a fishy smell that gets stronger after sex that comes from the vagina.
2. Chemical Irritants
Because they have toxic ingredients, chemical irritants can make your vagina itch and burn. Using pads, toilet paper, or feminine sprays with scents can cause allergic reactions and skin irritations. Also, taking a bubble bath, douching, and washing with scented soaps can help. If you don't want your vagina to itch, don't use scented toiletries. To avoid vaginal irritation, you should also wear cotton underwear, stop douching, and wipe from front to back after you urinate.
3. Menopause
Menopause is one of the common reasons for an Itchy vagina. When a woman goes through menopause, her hormones change significantly. Not only does the drop in estrogen cause hot flashes and night sweats, but it also makes her vaginal area dry. Because of this change, the uterus walls become thin and dry. Because there is less tissue, the vagina gets itchy and irritated. A doctor may give you estrogen pills, creams, or ring inserts to help ease these uncomfortable symptoms.
Also Read: Causes of Having A Wet Vagina
4. PH Imbalance
In addition to the changes in hormones that occur during menopause, your body experiences hormonal fluctuations throughout the month. Pregnancy, menstruation, and birth control all affect your hormone levels. Itchy vagina and dryness can occur when estrogen and pH levels are out of balance due to these changes in your body.
5. Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Almost all sexually transmitted infections can cause itching in the vaginal area. This includes Chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, and cases of human papillomavirus that show up as other symptoms, like vaginal warts. If your itchy vaginal area is a sign of a sexually transmitted disease, treating the disease will most likely help with the itching. But the way to treat it depends on the illness. Antibiotics are usually a good way to treat Chlamydia, for example. Herpes, on the other hand, is a long-term illness, so most treatments focus on making the symptoms go away.
6. Psoriasis or Eczema
Your itchy vagina could be caused by a skin problem like psoriasis or eczema. Red, scaly, and skin patches are symptoms of psoriasis, which can also be irritating and painful. The genital region is not exempt from its reach. Several disorders fall under the umbrella of the term "eczema," and they all produce itchy and inflamed skin. Even the opening of your vagina may be affected by eczema (vulva). If you suspect that your vagina is itching because of psoriasis or eczema, it's best to contact a doctor to rule out other possible causes. Because the skin around your genitals is so delicate, you may require a different treatment than you would for psoriasis or eczema on other regions of your body.
7. Pubic Lice
Insects that grow on pubic hair and cause irritation are known as pubic lice. You'll notice the itching more frequently at night when they're most active because they're commonly referred to as "crabs." The lice's saliva is what's causing the itching. Your doctor will be able to tell whether you have pubic lice because they are so small and challenging to see. With a medical insecticide cream or lotion, you can quickly get rid of pubic lice at home - your doctor or pharmacist can help you choose the proper medication and how to apply it.
8. Shaving
When you shave your pubic hair often, you can irritate the skin around your vagina, which can cause itching and burning. It can also cause hairs to grow back into the skin, making red, itchy bumps. Even though some people think it's clean to shave or trim their pubic hair, pubic hair actually keeps your vagina from getting sick. So maybe you should think about shaving less or not at all.
Takeaway
There are many potential triggers for itching in the vaginal region. Make an appointment with your primary care physician if you are suffering vaginal irritation with symptoms that continue or worsen over time. It is possible to find relief from vaginal itching with the appropriate medication.
Frequently asked questions
Q. How to prevent the vagina from itching?
A. Aside from regularly rinsing it in the shower, the most significant thing you can do for your vagina is just to leave it alone. The vagina is a part of the body that cleans itself, so if you put a lot of creams and powders on it, you're likely to feel itchy and irritated.
A. Which cream is best for an itchy vagina?
You should contact your doctor to know about the best cream for your itchy vagina.
Also Read: Things You Should Never Do To Your Vagina