Itching or irritation
anywhere on the body can cause discomfort. But when it occurs in an area as
sensitive as the vagina and vulva; the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening, it
can be especially uncomfortable. Most genital itching and irritation is not a
major concern. But because they can be symptoms of an infection, it is always a
good idea to let your doctor know when you have it.
There
are several common causes of vaginal itching, burning, and irritation these
includes;
Bacterial
vaginosis
It
is normal to have a healthy mix of bacteria in the vagina. But the wrong
bacteria growing there can lead to an infection. Apart from itching, other
symptoms that come with bacterial vaginosis are inflammation, burning,
discharge, and a fishy-smelling odor.
Sexually
transmitted diseases (STDs).
Chlamydia,
genital herpes, genital warts, trichomoniasis, and gonorrhea all can cause
vaginal/vulvar itching and irritation and other symptoms.
Yeast
infection (vaginal candidiasis).
About
three out of every four women will develop a yeast infection at some point in
their lives. Yeast infections occur when the yeast, candida, grow excessively
in the vagina and vulva. Pregnancy, intercourse, antibiotics, and a weakened
immune system can all make women more likely to get a yeast infection. In
addition to itching and irritation, a yeast infection will produce a thick,
white, cheesy discharge.
Menopause.
The
drop in estrogen production that occurs at the end of a woman’s reproductive
years can cause the vaginal walls to thin and dry out. This can lead to itching
and irritation. Thinning of the vaginal walls is also a problem in some women
who breast feed.
Chemical
irritants.
•
A number of chemical substances, including creams, douches, condoms,
contraceptive foams, laundry detergents, soaps, scented toilet paper, and
fabric softeners can irritate the vagina and vulva.
•
Lichen sclerosis. This is a rare condition that causes thin white patches to
form on the skin, especially around the vulva. The patches can permanently scar
the vaginal area. Postmenopausal women are most likely to develop this
condition.
Treatment
Vaginal
irritation will often get better on its own. However, if the irritation
continues, becomes severe, or comes back after treatment, you need to go back
to your doctor. The doctor will do a pelvic examination by probably also taking
a sample of the discharge to find the source of the problem. Treatment depends
on what condition is causing the problem:
•
Vaginosis and STDs are treated with antibiotics..
•
Yeast infections are treated with antifungal medications. They are inserted
into the vagina in the form of creams, ointments, or suppositories, or they are
taken orally..
•
Menopause-related itching may be treated with estrogen cream or tablets.
•
Other types of itching and irritation respond to steroid creams or lotions,
which reduce inflammation. A prescription-strength steroid cream can relieve
the irritation of lichen sclerosis.
In
young girls, it’s important to report any itching, burning, or irritation to a
health care provider, because these symptoms can be signs of sexual abuse.
Are
there home remedies for vaginal itching, burning, and irritation?
Here
are a few tips for preventing and treating vaginal irritation at home:
•
Avoid scented pads or toilet paper, creams, bubble bath, feminine sprays, and
douches.
•
Use water and a plain, unscented soap to regularly clean your external genital
area. But don’t wash more than once a day. Doing so can increase dryness.
•
Always wipe from front to back after having a bowel movement.
•
Wear cotton panties and change your underwear every day.
•
Do not douche.
•
Change the diapers of baby girls regularly.
•
Use condoms during sexual intercourse to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.
•
If you are experiencing vaginal dryness, use a vaginal moisturizer. Apply a
water-based lubricant before having sex.
•
Avoid sexual intercourse until your symptoms improve.
•
Don’t scratch; you can further irritate the area.
Reference:
tribuneonlineng
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