Why is my vagina itching? Everything you need to know about genital irritation

Vaginal itching is a painful symptom which could cause plenty of discomfort in the intimate area.

In most cases, genital irritation isn’t something you need to worry about but you should still contact your doctor if the itching becomes severe.

It may also occur as a result of certain skin disorders or sexually transmitted diseases (STD and in rare cases it could develop into vulvar cancer.

So what could vaginal itching be a sign of and when should you see someone?

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Chemical irritants:

Exposing the vagina to chemicals could cause vaginal itching as they might trigger an allergic reaction.

Common culprits include: soap, bubble baths, feminine sprays, douches, topical contraceptives, creams, ointments, detergents, fabric softeners and scented toilet paper.

Skin diseases:

Eczema and psoriasis can cause redness and itching in the genital region if they spread to the vagina.

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Sexual health

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Yeast infection:

Yeast is a naturally occurring fungus that’s normally present in the vagina. It usually doesn’t cause problems but if it goes unnoticed it could cause an infection.

At least three out of four women will have a yeast infection at some points in their lives.

The infection occurs after taking a course of antibiotics, as the types of medications can destroy good bacteria along with the bad bacteria.

An overgrowth of yeast in the vagina can result in uncomfortable symptoms, including itching, burning and lumpy discharge.

Bacterial vaginosis:

BV, commonly known as bacterial vaginosis, is another common reason for itchy genitals.

Like a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis is triggered by an imbalance between naturally occurring good and bad bacteria in the vagina.

The condition doesn’t always cause symptoms but when they do appear it’s often vaginal itching and an abnormal, foul-smelling discharge.

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STDs:

A number of sexually transmitted diseases can be transmitted during unprotected sex which can cause an itchy vagina.

These include: chlamydia, genital warts, gonorrhea, genital herpes, trichomoniasis.

Menopause:

Women who are going through menopause or who have already done so are more at risk for vaginal itching.

Due to the reduction of estrogen levels that occur during menopause, this leads to vaginal atrophy.

Stress:

Physical and emotional stress can cause vaginal itching and irritation.

Vulvar cancer:

In very rare cases, vaginal itching may be a symptom of vulvar cancer which develops in the vulva.

Vulvar cancer may not always cause symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include itching, abnormal bleeding, or pain in the vulvar area.

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When should you see a doctor?

It’s important to seek professional help whenever something doesn’t feel right down there, but if vaginal itching carries on for more than a week it’s best to get checked.

Vaginal itching could come with a number of other symptoms, including:

• Ulcers or blisters on the vulva
• Pain or tenderness in the genital area
• Genital redness or swelling
• Trouble urinating
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Discomfort during sex

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