Vaginal itching is a very common and uncomfortable symptom that happens and affects almost every women. It may occur due to many reasons like infection, irritants, chemicals, dryness or menopause, STD and cancer can cause itching. Most of the cases are not very serious and go away if hygiene, dryness and irritants are taken care of. But if it is not improving and is disrupting your daily routine then you should consult your doctor.
Causes 
  1. Irritants- If the vagina is exposed to chemicals it can cause allergy or itchy rash
    • Soap,Sprays,Douches,Creams,Ointment,Detergent,Scented toilet paper,Synthetic undergarments,Condom,Sanitary napkin
  2. Yeast infection- This is the most common cause of itching. Yeast is a fungus normally present in the vagina. If it is uncontrolled then it can cause infection. More common during pregnancy, diabetes and other conditions which weaken the immune system. It is accompanied by thick white curdy discharge and the uncontrolled urge to itch.
  3. Bacterial Vaginosis- It happens due to imbalance between good and bad bacteria in the vagina. It can cause itching, burning and abnormal foul-smelling or fishy discharge
  4. Chlamydia, Genital warts, Gonorrhoea, Genital herpes, Trichomoniasis like infections.
  5. Skin disease - like eczema, psoriasis or lichen sclerosis can cause itching.
  6. Menopause- Due to reduced estrogen levels, the mucosa becomes thin which can cause dryness, irritation and itchiness
  7. Stress – Can weaken the immune system and make you prone to infection-causing itching
  8. Vulvar cancer
When to see the doctor-    If itching is severe enough to disrupt your daily life or sleep or if the following symptoms are present along with itching 
Foul-smelling discharge, pain while passing urine, Rash, ulcer or blisters, Pain and Redness, Swellng, Dyspareunia
Treatment – Most common cause is fungal and hence can be treated by antifungal medication like cream, pessary or pills. Antibiotics are needed in other infections. Estrogen cream or tablet can be used for menopause.
Other general measures For prevention
  • Avoid applying soap over the vagina
  • Avoid spray and perfumes
  • Change wet or damp clothing frequently
  • Wear cotton underwear and loose clothes.
  • Eat yogurt and other probiotics
  • Wipe from front to back. Never do it back to front as the faecal matter is infective to the vagina and urethra both. The shower is better than a jet for washing purposes.
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