Have you been experiencing vaginal itching? It’s a pretty common issue, but that doesn’t make it any less frustrating. There are a number of causes, some more serious than others. Here are six of the most common reasons why women experience vaginal itching.

what causes vaginal itching

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Bacterial Vaginosis

There are many possible causes of vaginal itching, but one of the most common is bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina, which can lead to inflammation and a strong fishy odor. In addition to causing itching, BV can also cause burning during urination and abnormal vaginal discharge. Though it is not a sexually transmitted infection, BV is often seen in women who are sexually active. Treatment for BV usually involves antibiotics, either in pill form or as a vaginal cream or gel. If you think you may have BV, it’s important to see a doctor.

Vaginal Yeast Infections

Yeast is a type of fungus that naturally occurs in the vagina, and under certain conditions ( antibiotic use, pregnancy, and diabetes.) it can multiply and cause symptoms. These symptoms may include itchiness, burning, redness, and vaginal discharge. Some women also experience pain during sex. If you suspect you have a yeast infection, it’s important to see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Many over-the-counter medications are available for vaginal yeast infections, but prescription medication may be necessary in some cases. With proper treatment, most women can get rid of their symptoms quickly.

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Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

STDs are unfortunately quite common, and they can have a variety of unpleasant symptoms. One of the most noticeable and uncomfortable symptoms in women is vaginal itching. Vaginal itching can be caused by a number of different STDs, including genital herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. Left untreated, STDs can cause serious health problems such as infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and even cancer. So don’t wait- if you think you might have an STD, make an appointment with your doctor today.

Skin Diseases

Many women suffer from vaginal itching at some point in their lives. While it is often nothing more than a nuisance, it can sometimes be a sign of skin disease. Skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis can cause vaginal itching.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that results in dry, itchy skin that may spread to the vaginal area. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with eczema are more likely to have other allergies, such as asthma or hay fever.

Psoriasis is an inflammatory autoimmune condition characterized by the rapid build-up of skin cells on the outermost layer of skin. It can affect the skin anywhere on your body including the genital area. Genital psoriasis often affects the anus, the pubis, and the vulva causing extreme discomfort and itching.

With proper care, most skin conditions can be effectively managed and the itchiness will resolve.

Read next: 7 Steps To Improve Your Vaginal Health

Drop in Estrogen Levels

Estrogen is a hormone that helps to keep the vaginal tissues healthy and lubricated. When levels of this hormone decline, the vaginal tissues can become dry and irritated, leading to itching and discomfort.

A woman’s estrogen levels naturally fluctuate throughout her lifetime, but there are several common causes of a sudden drop in estrogen levels. One of the most common causes is menopause when a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs and her body produces less estrogen. Other potential causes include pregnancy, breastfeeding, and taking certain medications or supplements. In some cases, a drop in estrogen may also be due to lifestyle factors, such as poor nutrition or too much stress.

Chemical Irritants

In some cases, vaginal itching may be caused by a reaction to chemicals in soaps, detergents, or other products. These irritants can disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in the vagina, leading to inflammation and itchiness.

Many products that come into contact with the vagina, such as scented feminine hygiene products and condoms, contain irritants that can cause inflammation and itching. In addition, douching and other forms of vaginal cleansing can also strip away the body’s natural lubricants, leading to dryness and irritation. To avoid vaginal itching, it is important to be aware of the potential irritants in your products and to take steps to protect the delicate skin of the vagina.

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Final Thoughts

If you are experiencing vaginal itching, it is important to visit your doctor so that the cause can be identified and treated. There are a number of potential causes of vaginal itching, some of which are easily treatable while others may require more extensive care. By understanding the most common causes of vaginal itching, you can take steps to seek treatment and feel relief.

References

  1. Vaginal Itching: Causes, Treatments, and Diagnosis (healthline.com)
  2. Vaginal Itching, Burning, and Irritation (webmd.com)
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About the Author

Hermione M.

My name is Hermione. I am the founder of WomenH and I write about women's health, wellness, mental health, and personal growth. I created this platform to inspire women to take care of themselves mentally, physically, and emotionally to become their best selves. Thank you for stopping by.

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