Vaginal itchiness is a common symptom and most times it is harmless. However persistent vaginal itches can represent an underlying health condition especially with other concomitant symptoms like foul odor, abnormal discharge, pain in lower abdomen, fever, redness, irritation, etc. Ask A Doctor if you need further consultation by gynecologist for vaginal itchiness. Women may feel embarrassed about this symptoms and hide it from their doctor. Hesitation can result in delay in treatment and may result in complications. Maybe it is time to tell your doctor about it. Here are 5 causes of vaginal itchiness that will require gynecologist consultation at the earliest.

1.       Bacteria Vaginosis: in this condition the bad bacteria outgrow the good bacteria in vagina and result in abnormal discharge and fishy odor. This odor typical gets worse with sexual intercourse. Usually the skin and mucosa are good at cleaning out the bad bacteria and cause itching as a prominent symptom. Bacteria vaginosis is diagnosed by gynecologist after proper examination and testing. Bacterial vaginosis usually resolves by itself. Eating foods rich in probiotics like yogurt, curd, buttermilk can help. Using soaps and antibiotics an worsen the condition by washing out the good bacteria. If it does not resolve by itself, then gynecologist consultation is recommended.

2.       Yeast Infection: is also a frequent cause of vaginal itching. It may happen due to fungal overgrowth due to suppression of the good bacteria. Yeast infection may be exacerbated by stress, antibiotic use, unclean drinking water, sugary foods, hormonal disorders, compromised immunity etc. It may result in a white, cottage cheese like discharge and rash along with itching. It may transmit to the other partner during sexual intercourse. Eating healthy, low sugar foods, drinking clean water and regular exercise help allay this overgrowth. Over the counter topical antifungal preparations are effective in reducing the overgrowth.

3.       Contact dermatitis: Allergic reactions to latex condoms, lubricants, shaving, chemicals like soap, shampoo, detergent can cause irritation and sensitivity. This is also a common cause of itching, red, swollen genitalia, and rash. Switching to hypoallergenic products that are fragrance-free, paraben-free and phthalate-free can help. Using natural body care products is also helpful.

4.       Sexually Transmitted Diseases: can commonly cause symptoms of itching, redness, fever, diarrhea, and discharge from vagina, among other symptoms. Many germs can cause STDs like gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, chlamydia, herpes, syphilis, etc. Having multiple sexual partners is a big risk factor to get these infections. People suspected to this history are immediately advised to go for STD panel to check for the presence of any of the above infections. Appropriate medication and developing faithful behavior towards one partner will help prevent further damage.

5.       Synthetic clothes: Itching may develop if tight synthetic clothes are worn which do not allow flow of air in vagina. Avoiding tight, synthetic inner wear helps relieve symptoms of bacterial or yeast infections. Loose fitting cotton clothes are preferred at all times.

These are only a few causes mentioned that can cause itchy vagina. If the itch persists despite all the necessary measures, then it requires detailed evaluation. Consult online gynecologist if you require gynecologic consultation or an over the counter medication can help resolve the symptoms.

 

Written by Dr Vaishalee Punj