5 Possible Causes of an Itchy Vagina

When an itch strikes, you have to scratch it unless it's in a less-than-convenient area like your vagina. Many things lead to vaginal itching, some more concerning than others.

The good news is that relief quickly follows as soon as you figure out the cause of the itch. From sexually transmitted diseases to yeast infections, there's a cure that can help.

At The Women's Center at Life Point Medical, our team specializes in women's health and gynecology. Monique Petteys is our certified family nurse practitioner who quickly evaluates your vaginal health to determine the right course of action for an itchy vagina.

Is vaginal itching ever normal?

You've likely experienced itchy skin all over your body – bug bites in the summer or dry skin during the winter. You may even have the occasional itch below the belt, but it shouldn't become a common issue.

Vaginal itching happens for many reasons and isn't always a reason for concern. However, it could be a sign of a bigger problem when itching develops with other symptoms.

If you notice more than the occasional itch, it's a good idea to remember if you've changed anything recently, such as laundry soaps or skin products. These could irritate sensitive skin, especially in the vaginal area.

Vaginal itching that happens suddenly or occurs with specific symptoms is a reason for concern. Contact our office if you have any of the following issues along with an itchy vagina:

• Redness around the vulva
• Vaginal discharge that's white or yellow
• Tenderness in the vagina
• Painful sex
• Difficulty urinating

Check around the vaginal area for blisters or sores that appear and itch or hurt. These sores could be signs of an infection or a sexually transmitted disease and warrant immediate treatment.

Five causes of vaginal itching

An itchy vagina isn't something you want to deal with long – so getting to the bottom of the problem is vital. The following are five probable causes of vaginal itching in women:

1. Yeast infection

Yeast is a fungus that's usually present in the vagina, but when it grows out of control, you can get a yeast infection. The overgrowth of fungus leads to uncomfortable symptoms like vaginal itching, burning, or a thick white discharge.

Taking antibiotics is a common reason for yeast infections, as the medication kills the good bacteria in the vagina that keeps yeast in check.

2. Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is another condition that leads to vaginal itching due to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. If you have symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, it often includes itching and a foul-smelling discharge.
3. Allergic reaction

An allergic reaction to irritants can happen anywhere, including your vaginal tissues. Changing to scented menstrual products or using scented creams or perfumes around the vagina can trigger an allergic reaction, rash, and itching.
4. Sexually transmitted diseases

Certain STDs have vaginal itching as a symptom, including herpes, genital warts, and trichomoniasis. You may also have other symptoms with these conditions, such as discharge or a foul odor.
5. Low estrogen

It may be surprising, but low estrogen levels are a common culprit behind an itchy vagina, especially for women in menopause. Low estrogen causes skin thinning, leading to itching and other symptoms. Lubricants and hormone replacement therapy can help with these symptoms.

Our team carefully evaluates your symptoms to determine the cause of your itchy vagina. We also offer tips to prevent further vaginal itching, including using unscented products around the vagina, refraining from the use of douches, and changing out of wet clothing right away.

For vaginal itch treatment, call The Women's Center at Life Point Medical today, or request a consultation using our online scheduling tool.