Vaginal Itching: 20 Possible Causes

Vaginal itching is a common symptom that affects many women. There are a variety of causes for this very discomfort, which can be both physical and psychological factors.

The Vagina

The vagina is a part of the female reproductive system. Most times, people say vagina when they really mean vulva. The vagina is just one part of the vulva — specifically the inside part. The vulva is the part of the female genitals that is on the outside of the body, like the labia, clitoris, urethra, and vaginal opening.

The vagina is a muscular canal that connects the uterus to the outside of the body. It serves as a passage for menstrual blood, as well as for sexual intercourse and childbirth. It also has a role in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria, which can be disrupted by certain infections or conditions.

In this article, we will discuss some of the reasons why women have itching in their vagina and vaginal area.

Here are 20 possible causes of vaginal itching:

Yeast infection

A yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. This fungus is normally present in the vagina in small amounts, but when there is an overgrowth, it can cause symptoms such as vaginal itching.

The yeast infection can cause the vaginal tissue to become irritated and inflamed, leading to itching. The fungus can also produce a thick, white discharge that can further irritate the vaginal area and cause itching. Additionally, the overgrowth of yeast can change the pH of the vagina, which can also lead to itching and discomfort.

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Vaginal yeast infections are common and can happen to any woman. Risk factors for getting yeast infections include taking antibiotics, diabetes,  a weak immune system, and hormonal changes.

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. The exact cause of BV is not fully understood, but it is believed to occur when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. In a healthy vagina, there is a balance of “good” bacteria (such as lactobacilli) and “bad” bacteria (such as anaerobes). When the balance is disrupted, and the “bad” bacteria outnumber the “good” bacteria, BV can occur. This can happen due to a variety of factors, such as having multiple sexual partners, douching, or using certain types of birth control.

BV can cause symptoms such as vaginal itching (but not always), burning, and discharge. The discharge may be thin, milky, and have a strong, fishy odor. The itching is usually due to the irritation caused by the overgrowth of bacteria, which can cause the vaginal tissue to become inflamed and irritated.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause a variety of symptoms, including vaginal itching. Some common STIs that can cause vaginal itching include:

• Chlamydia: This bacterial infection can cause itching and burning in the vaginal area, as well as discharge and pain during urination.
• Gonorrhea: This bacterial infection can also cause itching and burning in the vaginal area, as well as discharge, pain during urination and in some cases pelvic pain.
• Trichomoniasis: This parasitic infection can cause itching, burning, and redness in the vaginal area, as well as discharge and pain during intercourse.
• Genital herpes: This viral infection can cause itching, burning, and tingling in the vaginal area, as well as painful blisters and sores.
• Genital warts: These are caused by HPV, they can cause itching, burning, and discomfort in the vaginal area, as well as small warts or bumps on the vulva and around the anus.

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All these STIs are usually spread through sexual contact, and they can have serious long-term health consequences if left untreated. It is important to practice safe sex and to get tested if you have any symptoms or suspect you may have been exposed to an STI.

Menopause

Menopause is a natural process that occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs and her body produces less estrogen. The hormonal changes that occur during menopause can cause a variety of symptoms, including vaginal itching. One of the main ways menopause causes vaginal itching is through vaginal dryness. Estrogen helps to keep the vaginal tissue lubricated and healthy, but during menopause, the levels of estrogen decrease, leading to vaginal dryness. This dryness can cause itching and discomfort, especially during sexual activity.

Additionally, the decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can also cause the vaginal tissue to become thin and less elastic. This can lead to itching and discomfort, as well as an increased risk of vaginal infections.

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There are several options for managing vaginal dryness and discomfort during menopause, such as lubricants, vaginal moisturizers, and low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy. Hormonal therapy can also be done to balance hormones.

Hormonal birth control

Hormonal birth control methods, such as the pill, the ring, and the patch, can cause vaginal itching as a side effect. This is because these methods of birth control alter the levels of hormones in a woman’s body, which can affect the pH of the vagina.

The vagina has a delicate balance of bacteria and pH that help to keep it healthy. Hormonal birth control can disrupt this balance by increasing the pH, thereby, making it more alkaline. This can lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria, which can cause vaginal itching and other symptoms.

Additionally, hormonal birth control can cause vaginal dryness, which can also lead to itching and discomfort. This is because the hormones in birth control can decrease the amount of natural lubrication in the vagina.

Allergic reactions

Allergic reactions can cause vaginal itching as a result of an allergic reaction to certain products. Some common products that can cause vaginal itching include:

• Soaps and shower gels: These can contain fragrances, dyes, and other ingredients that can cause irritation and itching in the vaginal area.
• Laundry detergent: Some laundry detergents can contain fragrances, dyes, and other ingredients that can cause irritation and itching in the vaginal area.
• Condoms: Some people may be allergic to the materials used in condoms, such as latex, which can cause itching and other symptoms.
• Personal lubricants: Some lubricants can contain irritants or allergens that can cause itching and other symptoms.

Allergic reactions can cause itching, redness, and swelling in the vaginal area, as well as other symptoms such as burning, soreness and rash. If you suspect an allergic reaction, it is important to stop using the product and consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend a cream or ointment to help with the itching and redness, or may refer you to an allergist for further testing.

Douches

Douching is the practice of washing or cleaning the inside of the vagina using water or a mixture of water and other fluids. Douching can cause vaginal itching because it disrupts the natural balance of bacteria and pH in the vagina. The vagina has a delicate balance of bacteria and pH that helps to keep it healthy. Douching can disrupt this balance by washing away the “good” bacteria that help to keep the pH at a healthy level. This can lead to an overgrowth of “bad” bacteria, which can cause vaginal itching and other symptoms.

Additionally, douching can cause irritation and dryness in the vaginal area, which can also lead to itching and discomfort. Douching can also increase the risk of vaginal infections and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) which can cause severe pain and discomfort.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women avoid douching altogether, as it is not necessary for vaginal hygiene and can be harmful to the vagina’s delicate balance.

Tight clothing

Wearing tight clothing or underwear can cause vaginal itching because it can trap moisture and heat in the vaginal area. This can lead to an increase in bacteria and yeast growth, which can cause irritation and itching. Tight clothing such as tight pants, leggings, and tight underwear can trap moisture and heat in the vaginal area, which can create a warm and humid environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria and yeast. This can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast, which can cause itching, redness, and other symptoms.

Additionally, tight clothing can cause friction and rubbing against the vaginal area, which can further irritate the skin and lead to itching. This can be more pronounced in case of synthetic fabrics that do not allow the skin to breathe.

To prevent vaginal itching caused by tight clothing, it is recommended to wear loose-fitting clothing and underwear made of breathable fabrics such as cotton.

Sweating

Excessive sweating can cause vaginal itching because it can lead to moisture and heat in the vaginal area, which can create a warm and humid environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria and yeast. Sweating is a normal bodily function, but when it becomes excessive, it can lead to an accumulation of moisture and heat in the vaginal area. This can create a warm and humid environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria and yeast, which can cause irritation and itching. Sweating can also cause friction and rubbing against the vaginal area, which can further irritate the skin and lead to itching.

Additionally, sweating can cause the vaginal area to become more susceptible to chaffing, which can also cause itching and discomfort. This can be more pronounced in case of synthetic fabrics that do not allow the skin to breathe.

To prevent vaginal itching caused by excessive sweating, it is recommended to wear loose-fitting clothing and underwear made of breathable fabrics such as cotton. Wiping the area dry after sweating, and keeping the area clean and dry can also be helpful.

Scratching

Scratching the vaginal area can cause vaginal itching because it can lead to further irritation and inflammation of the skin. Scratching can also cause small cuts or tears in the skin, which can increase the risk of infection and make the itching worse. When you scratch the vaginal area, it can disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria and pH in the area, and cause irritation and inflammation. Additionally, when you scratch the area, you may be unknowingly spreading bacteria or other irritants from your hands to the area, making the situation worse.

Irritants

Irritants are substances that can cause irritation and inflammation of the skin, and can cause vaginal itching. Some common irritants that can cause vaginal itching include:

• Chemicals: Certain chemicals such as those found in bubble baths, laundry detergents, and personal hygiene products can cause irritation and itching in the vaginal area.
• Dyes: Some dyes used in clothing and personal hygiene products can cause irritation and itching in the vaginal area.
• Fragrances: Some fragrances used in personal hygiene products and laundry detergents can cause irritation and itching in the vaginal area.
• Douches: Douching can cause irritation and itching in the vaginal area. They can contain chemicals and fragrances that can cause irritation and itching in the vaginal area.
• Spermicides: Spermicides are chemicals used as a contraceptive, they can cause irritation and itching in the vaginal area.

These irritants can cause itching, redness, and swelling in the vaginal area, as well as other symptoms such as burning, soreness and rash. If you suspect an irritant is causing your symptoms, it is important to stop using the product and consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend a cream or ointment to help with the itching and redness, or may refer you to a specialist for further testing.

Hormone imbalances

Hormone imbalances can cause vaginal itching because hormones play a key role in maintaining the health and balance of the vaginal area. When hormone levels are not balanced, it can lead to changes in the vaginal tissue that can cause itching and other symptoms. For example, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects the balance of hormones in women and can cause an overproduction of androgens (male hormones), which can lead to vaginal itching. Additionally, hormonal imbalances can cause changes in the vaginal pH, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria and yeast, which can also cause itching.

Hormonal imbalances can also cause vaginal dryness, which can lead to itching and discomfort. This is because the hormones play a key role in keeping the vaginal tissues lubricated and healthy.

 Hormone therapy, medications or lifestyle changes can help balance hormones and alleviate symptoms.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. Although psoriasis commonly affects the skin on the elbows, knees, and scalp, it can also affect the vaginal area and cause itching. Psoriasis causes red, itchy, and scaly patches on the skin. In the vaginal area, it can cause itching and redness. It can also cause discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse and urination. In severe cases, it can also cause bleeding.

Psoriasis is caused by an immune system problem, where the body produces new skin cells too quickly. It is not clear why this happens, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors can also play a role.

Topical creams, light therapy, and oral medications can help to alleviate symptoms of psoriasis.

Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation, itching, and redness of the skin. Although eczema commonly affects the skin on the face, hands, and feet, it can also affect the vaginal area and cause itching. Eczema in the vaginal area can cause itching, redness, and burning. It can also cause dry, scaly skin and small blisters. The affected area may also be swollen and sore.

Topical creams and ointments, as well as oral medications and light therapy can help to alleviate symptoms of eczema. Avoiding triggers, such as certain soaps, detergents and fabrics, can also help.

Lichen sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin condition that causes thinning and whitening of the skin, as well as itching and soreness. It most commonly affects the skin of the vulva and the area around the anus, but can also affect the skin of the penis, upper thighs and lower abdomen. In women, Lichen sclerosus can cause itching, burning, and soreness in the vulvar area, which can be severe. It can also cause a whitening and thinning of the skin, as well as small blisters, tears, or fissures. The affected area may also be swollen and painful.

Lichen sclerosus is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, where the body’s immune system attacks the skin. It is more common in postmenopausal women and those who have a history of eczema or other autoimmune disorders.

Treatment options include topical corticosteroids and other topical medications, as well as phototherapy. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Lichen planus

Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes itching, burning and soreness, as well as purple or white raised, flat-topped bumps on the skin. It can affect any part of the body, including the vulva and vaginal area, causing itching and soreness. In women, Lichen planus can cause itching, burning, and soreness in the vulvar area, which can be severe. It can also cause purple or white raised, flat-topped bumps on the skin, as well as small blisters, tears, or fissures. The affected area may also be swollen and painful.

It is more common in people who have a history of other autoimmune disorders or hepatitis C.

Atrophic vaginitis

Atrophic vaginitis is a condition that occurs when the vaginal walls become thin, dry, and inflamed due to a decrease in estrogen levels. This can happen during menopause, after childbirth, or during breastfeeding, and can cause vaginal itching, burning, and soreness. Atrophic vaginitis can also cause vaginal dryness which can lead to itching and discomfort, especially during sexual activity. The vaginal pH can also change, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria and yeast, which can also cause itching, as well as discharge and unpleasant odor.

There are several options for managing vaginal dryness and discomfort caused by atrophic vaginitis such as lubricants, vaginal moisturizers, and low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy. Hormonal therapy can also be done to balance hormones.

Vaginal cancer

Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that begins in the cells of the vagina. It can cause vaginal itching. Early-stage vaginal cancer often does not cause any symptoms. As the cancer progresses, it may cause symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or discharge, pelvic pain, and vaginal itching. It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other, less serious conditions such as vaginal infections or atrophic vaginitis.

It is important to have regular check-ups and screenings, especially if you are at a higher risk of developing vaginal cancer, such as women who have been exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES), a medication that was prescribed to pregnant women in the past.

It is worth noting that early detection and treatment of vaginal cancer can improve the chances of recovery. A combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy is usually used to treat vaginal cancer.

Vulvar cancer

Vulvar cancer is a rare type of cancer that begins in the cells of the vulva, the external female genital area. Like vaginal cancer, it can cause vaginal itching. Early-stage vulvar cancer often does not cause any symptoms. As the cancer progresses, it may cause symptoms such as vulvar itching, burning, or pain, a lump or sore on the vulva, or bleeding or discharge not related to menstruation. These symptoms can also be caused by other, less serious conditions such as vulvar skin conditions or infections.

It is important to have regular check-ups and screenings, especially if you are at a higher risk of developing vulvar cancer, such as women who have been exposed to HPV (Human papillomavirus) or who have a history of smoking.

It is worth noting that early detection and treatment of vulvar cancer can improve the chances of recovery. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The treatment plan will depend on the stage and type of vulvar cancer as well as the patient’s overall health.

Psychological causes

Psychological causes of vaginal itching can include stress, anxiety, and depression. Stress and emotional distress can cause a range of physical symptoms, including itching in the vaginal area. When a person is under psychological stress, the body releases stress hormones such as cortisol, which can cause inflammation and itching. Anxiety and depression can also affect the immune system, making it more susceptible to infections and irritations which can cause vaginal itching. Additionally, some people may develop a condition called psychogenic pruritus, which is characterized by itching caused by psychological factors, such as stress or emotional distress, rather than a physical condition.

If you experience vaginal itching and think it may be related to stress, anxiety, or depression, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. A healthcare professional may refer you to a mental health professional for counseling or therapy, or may prescribe medications to help manage symptoms.

It is important to address the underlying psychological cause to manage the symptoms. Self-care techniques such as relaxation techniques, exercise, and stress-management techniques may also be helpful in managing symptoms.

In some cases, over-the-counter remedies can provide relief, but other times, prescription medications or other treatments may be necessary.

Ways to stop vaginal itching

1. Keep the vaginal area clean and dry.
2. Wear breathable underwear made of cotton.
3. Avoid tight-fitting clothing.
4. Avoid using harsh soaps or detergents on the area.
5. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap to clean the area.
6. Avoid using scented products, such as bubble baths or scented tampons.
7. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as douches or powders.
8. Avoid using antibiotics unless prescribed by a doctor.
9. Avoid sexual activity if you have an infection.
10. Use a water-based lubricant during sexual activity.
11. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or chlorine, on the area.
12. Avoid using scented products, such as bubble baths or scented tampons.
13. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or chlorine, on the area.
14. See a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
15. Practice good hygiene habits.
16. Try over-the-counter creams or ointments for relief.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is provided as an information resource only. This information should not be used as a substitute or professional diagnosis and treatment. You should always consult your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication.