What causes an itchy vagina? We’ve all been there. That itching, irritating, uncomfortable sensation. Unfortunately, this is a common issue for many women. But what causes itchy vagina and how is it treated? Stick around to find out.
What Causes Itchy Vagina?
There are several common causes of vaginal itching, irritation, and burning. They include:
Yeast Infection
75% of women will develop a yeast infection at some point in their life. yeast infection occurs when there is an overgrowth of vaginal candida. It causes itching, irritation, and thick white discharge.
STDs
Many STDs can cause itchy vagina and other symptoms.
Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacteria is essential to your health, but sometimes the wrong bacteria grow in the vagina. This causes itching, burning, inflammation, discharge, and odor.
Chemical Irritants
Any number of chemical substances can irritate the vagina and vulva. Fabric softeners, creams, condoms, detergents, soaps, scented toilet paper, douches, contraceptive foams, and much more can cause irritation.
Lichen Sclerosis
This condition is rare but appears as white patches of skin around the vulva. It can permanently scar the vaginal area. This condition more likely to occur in postmenopausal women.
Menopause
During menopause, estrogen levels drop. This causes the vaginal walls to thin and dry out. This leads to itchy vagina and irritation. However, this can also impact women who are breastfeeding.
Treating Itchy Vagina
Vaginal irritation sometimes gets better on its own. However, if irritation continues, or is severe, its time to speak to your doctor. Your provider will do an exam and possibly run tests to determine the cause of your irritation.
Depending on the cause of your itchy vagina, there are a few treatment options. For bacterial vaginosis and STDs, your doctor may prescribe https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/video/josephson-antibioticsor antiparasitic. Yeast infections are treated with antifungal medications. Itching related to menopause may be treated with estrogen creams, tablets, or vaginal moisturizers. Other types of itching may be treated with steroid creams.
Speak to Your Doctor about What Causes Itchy Vagina
If you are experiencing concerning symptoms, don’t wait to talk to your doctor. Speak up and let your provider help you find the right treatment. To learn more, please contact The Menopause Center today.