Not only can it be discomforting, but vaginal itching could also indicate an underlying problem. While some common causes of vaginal itching, such as yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, may also cause abnormal discharge, other causes like razor bumps or genital herpes, will not cause any. Regardless, knowing the causes of vaginal itching is important to begin the timely and correct treatment.
Here are some possible causes of an itchy vagina or vulva
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is a pretty common condition caused by bacterial overgrowth and a pH imbalance in the vagina, which can lead to itching in women. It commonly affect women who have unprotected sexual intercourse and also in women who douch.
Yeast infection
A cottage cheese-like discharge, redness around the labia and vulva, and itching are all classic signs of a yeast infection. This is caused by Candida vulvovaginitis, which is a fungal infection.
Sexually transmitted infection (STI)
Itching is not really a classic symptom of most STIs, though it can sometimes be a first sign that something is up. Some STIs that can irritate the skin and cause itching are genital herpes, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Home remedies
Here are some things you can do to prevent vaginal itching and maintain good vaginal health, according to Dr Ritu Sethi, Senior Consultant, Gynaecology, Cloud Nine Hospital, Gurgaon:
- Use warm water and a gentle cleanser to wash your genital area
- Avoid scented soaps, lotions and bubble baths.
- Change wet or damp clothing right after swimming or exercising
- Wear cotton underwear.
- Always wipe front to back to keep bacteria from feces away from the vulva and vagina.
- Use barrier methods when having sex.
