Vaginal itching is a common symptom that can be caused by several factors, ranging from infections to hormonal changes. Understanding the underlying causes can help identify the right treatment and prevent further discomfort. Here are the five common causes of vaginal itch.
- Sudden changes in your hormone levels
Itching on the vagina is not always a major source of concern. Sometimes it is simply brought about by some sudden hormonal changes.
Extreme hormonal changes can usually be experienced by women who are going into menopause or are breastfeeding—after a delivery, obviously.
When extreme hormonal changes happen, most likely, your oestrogen levels are going to drop significantly.
When oestrogen levels drop heavily, the vagina could experience a general sense of dryness and this causes the inner lining of the vaginal walls to be more prone to itch.
For instance, due to a lack of natural vaginal lubrication, your vaginal walls may have become very thin and even mild friction could cause microtears.
Then, when the vagina has a lot of microtears, itching can be felt. Usually, this issue can go away on its own, especially after you stop breastfeeding in the case of new mothers.
- Did you change your soap recently?
One reason your vagina is itching may be a condition called contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is some form of an allergic reaction to certain chemicals.
The itching can be brought about by a variety of situations, including an allergy to latex or certain ingredients contained in a lube.
However, in some cases, contact dermatitis can also be brought about by a change in the soap you are using. Did you change your soap recently?
It could be the case that the new soap you have changed to recently contains harsh chemicals that are not suited to your skin.
This kind of thing could cause itching and a general sense of discomfort. Contact dermatitis usually appears to be a rash on the skin and it is very itchy.
As per the study reported by Everyday Health, chemical irritants commonly present in everyday products that come into contact with the vagina and vulva, such as certain types of soap, can trigger an allergic reaction known as contact dermatitis. Chemicals like alcohol, dyes, and fragrances can be the culprits. If an irritant is responsible, you may experience symptoms such as itchiness.
Usually, if you have noticed the cause yourself and removed the source of irritant, you can allow time to resolve the itching on its own.
- Have you checked for pubic lice?
Pubic lice are a scary thing and can easily be shared through sexual activity. Pubic lice are super tiny crab-like creatures that attach themselves to your pubic hair.
They grow there and can cause major itching; the sensation can be quite severe and has the potential to disrupt daily activities.
In some cases, pubic lice could be infectious after sharing clothing, towels, or bedsheet with someone who is already infected
As reported by the National Institute of Health, pubic lice are minuscule insects, measuring 1.6 mm or less, and they typically inhabit the genital area. These lice are transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity and, less frequently, through contact with the bed linens, towels, or underwear of an infected person.
If you suspect this could be your problem, the best case is to get yourself checked by a doctor first. Then, you will most likely be prescribed an over-the-counter lotion that can be safely applied to your vulva and pubic hair.
Such a lotion is not typically doctor-prescribed though, so you can also get it easily without consulting a doctor first. However, in severe cases, a doctor’s prescription for a stronger medication may be required.
- Your vagina is just too dry
If you are the type of person who douches your vagina, you could actually make it drier and drier as you go. The vagina is essentially a self-cleaning organ and does not have any need for complicated douching.
In fact, douching could actually be bad for it rather than good. You see, douching cleanses the entire vagina and rids it of its own natural acidity.
This is actually unhealthy because the vagina needs to be acidic so as to prevent bacteria growth as well as yeast infections.
Also, thorough cleaning of the vagina automatically removes its own natural lubrication which then makes it extra dry.
According to the study conducted by the National Health Service, this symptom can be associated with various conditions. It may lead to itchiness inside the vagina, resulting in discomfort during sexual intercourse. Increased friction during penetration can further irritate the skin, adding to the discomfort. Proper evaluation and diagnosis are crucial to determine the underlying cause and implement appropriate measures for relief and improved vaginal health.
The vaginal walls should not be dry as it will cause friction which may lead to microtears along the vaginal walls. Of course, if you have many microtears in your vagina, this could cause an uncomfortable sensation of itching.
- You may have a rare condition: lichen sclerosus
LS or lichen sclerosus is a rare condition that typically affects girls before the age of menstruation (before puberty) and also elderly women who are past their menopause.
This condition causes thin patches of white skin on the surface of the vagina and these patches can be itchy. Experts are not sure what causes lichen sclerosus in the first place, but treatment does exist.
For the most part, this condition is believed to be related to genetics, immune disorders, or infections.
If you find your vaginal itch comes with thin patches of white skin, which may be accompanied by a burning sensation from time to time, get yourself checked immediately because it could be LS.
Treatment for LS is typically topical using corticosteroid ointments. These types of ointments work to reduce itching and other complications that may arise together with lichen sclerosus.
To conclude, identifying the reason behind vaginal itch can help people manage the issue and consider relief options. Women can prioritize their vaginal and overall well-being by addressing these concerns and seeking treatment for their comfort and pleasure.
Can Diabetes Cause Vaginal Itching?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood due to the body’s inability to produce or use insulin effectively. This can lead to various health problems, including nerve damage, kidney disease, and heart disease. One lesser-known complication of diabetes is vaginal itching. In this paper, we will explore the link between diabetes and vaginal itching, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Firstly, let us understand what vaginal itching is. Vaginal itching, also known as vulvovaginal itching, is a persistent, uncomfortable sensation that affects the outer female genitalia. It can be accompanied by redness, swelling, burning, and discharge. While vaginal itching is a common problem that affects women of all ages, it is essential to seek medical attention if it persists as it could be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Now, the question arises, can diabetes cause vaginal itching? The answer is yes. Diabetes can cause vaginal itching due to the high levels of glucose in the blood. The excess glucose in the blood can lead to overgrowth of yeast, a type of fungus, in the vagina. Yeast feeds on sugar, and when there is an abundance of it, it can cause an infection known as vaginal thrush. Vaginal thrush is a common condition that causes vaginal itching, discharge, and discomfort during urination.
Moreover, the lack of insulin or the body’s inability to use it effectively can also lead to nerve damage, which can cause a condition called diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy can affect various parts of the body, including the genitals, leading to itching, burning, and tingling sensations. This can also result in a lack of lubrication and dryness in the vagina, leading to further discomfort and itching.
Apart from these direct effects of diabetes on vaginal itching, there are also indirect factors that can contribute to this condition. For instance, individuals with diabetes are more prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to the excess sugar in their urine, which can lead to itching in the genital area. Additionally, diabetes also weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections, including those that cause vaginal itching.
The symptoms of vaginal itching in individuals with diabetes are similar to those without the condition. However, they may experience more severe and persistent symptoms. These may include intense itching, soreness, burning, and redness in the vaginal area. In some cases, there may also be a thick, white, and odorless discharge. Women with diabetes may also have recurrent episodes of vaginal itching, making it a chronic problem.
The treatment of vaginal itching in individuals with diabetes depends on the underlying cause. If it is due to a yeast infection, antifungal medications such as creams, tablets, or suppositories may be prescribed. In the case of diabetic neuropathy, managing blood sugar levels through medication, diet, and exercise can help alleviate the symptoms. Additionally, keeping the vaginal area clean and dry, wearing loose-fitting clothes, and avoiding scented products can also help prevent and manage vaginal itching.
In conclusion, diabetes can indeed cause vaginal itching. The high levels of sugar in the blood, nerve damage, weakened immune system, and susceptibility to UTIs all contribute to this condition. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels, follow a healthy lifestyle, and seek medical attention if they experience persistent vaginal itching. With proper management and treatment, this uncomfortable and bothersome symptom can be alleviated, improving the overall quality of life for those with diabetes.
