Vaginal itching

Definition

Vaginal itching is a tingling or uneasy irritation of the skin of the vagina and the surrounding area (vulva). The itching may cause a desire to scratch the affected area.

Alternative Names

Causes

Common causes of vaginal itching include:

• Chemical irritants -- such as detergents, fabric softeners, feminine sprays, ointments, creams, douches, and contraceptive foams or jellies.
• 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.
• 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.

Other possible, but less common, causes of vaginal or vulvar itching include:

• Certain skin conditions affecting the vulvar skin, some of which may be precancerous
• Pinworms (a parasitic infection mainly affecting children)

References

Clark LR, Atendido M. Group B streptococcal vaginitis in postpubertal adolescent girls. J Adolesc Health. 2005; 36(5): 437-440.

Edwards L. The diagnosis and treatment of infectious vaginitis. Dermatol Ther. 2004; 17(1): 102-110.

Reid G, Bruce AW. Urogenital infections in women: can probiotics help? Postgrad Med J. 2003; 79(934): 428-432.

Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier; 2007.