Condition
Vaginal itching
David Cohen, M.D.Published 30 March 20054 min read
Key points
- If you know that you have a yeast infection because your symptoms are exactly the same as those in the past, try over-the-counter creams or vaginal suppositories.
- Your doctor will take a medical history and perform a physical examination, including a pelvic exam.
- Antifungal drugs may be prescribed for yeast infections.
- Yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted.
Alternative names
Pruritus vulvae; Itching - vaginal area; Vulvar itching
Definition
Itching of the vagina and the surrounding area (vulva).
Common Causes
Common Causes of vaginal itching include:
- Chemical irritants - such as detergents, fabric softeners, feminine sprays, ointments, creams, douches, and contraceptive foams or jellies.
- Vaginal yeast infection - often includes a discharge that is white and curd-like. Vaginal yeast infections can be brought on by antibiotics, birth control pills, pregnancy, menstruation, condom use, sexual intercourse, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.
- Vaginitis - inflammation, itching, discharge, and odor caused by other infections (including sexually transmitted diseases). Vaginitis in girls before puberty is common. If a young girl has a sexually transmitted vaginal infection, however, sexual abuse must be considered and addressed.
- Menopause - the drop in estrogen causes thinning of the vaginal wall and less lubrication.
- Stress - may increase vaginal itching and make you more susceptible to infections.
Other possible, but less common, causes of vaginal or vulvar itching include:
- Pinworms (a parasitic infection mainly affecting children)
- Certain skin conditions affecting the vulvar skin, some of which may be precancerous
Home Care
To prevent and treat vaginal itching:
- Keep your genital area clean and dry. Use plain, unscented soap.
- Avoid colored or perfumed toilet tissue and bubble bath.
- Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from synthetic materials. For infants and toddlers, change diapers often.
- Change out of wet clothing, especially wet bathing suits or exercise clothing, as soon as possible.
- Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches.
- Eat yogurt with live cultures or take lactobacillus acidophilus tablets when using antibiotics. Check with your doctor.
- Cleanse by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus) after urinating or having a bowel movement.
- Lose weight if you are over weight.
Frequently asked questions
What causes vaginal itching?
Common Causes of vaginal itching include:
- Chemical irritants - such as detergents, fabric softeners, feminine sprays, ointments, creams, douches, and contraceptive foams or jellies.
- Vaginal yeast infection - often includes a discharge that is white and curd-like. Vaginal yeast infections can be brought on by antibiotics, birth control pills, pregnancy, menstruation, condom use, sexual intercourse, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.
- Vaginitis - inflammation, itching, discharge, and odor caused by other infections (including sexually transmitted diseases). Vaginitis in girls before puberty is common.
Can vaginal itching be prevented?
- Keep your genital area clean and dry. Use plain, unscented soap.
- Avoid colored or perfumed toilet tissue and bubble bath.
- Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from synthetic materials. For infants and toddlers, change diapers often.
- Change out of wet clothing, especially wet bathing suits or exercise clothing, as soon as possible.
- Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches.
- Eat yogurt with live cultures or take lactobacillus acidophilus tablets when using antibiotics. Check with your doctor.
- Cleanse by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus) after urinating or having a bowel movement.
- Lose weight if you are over weight.
How is vaginal itching diagnosed?
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
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health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.