Vaginal itching - is a sensation of tingling or irritation of the external genitalia (vulva) and vagina. As a rule, vaginal itching is a disorder with multiple etiologies, that is, the causes of the problem can be several plus the psychological component.
Causes of vaginal itching
It is necessary to know that itching of the intimate area is one of the characteristic symptoms of many sexually transmitted diseases or other vaginal infections.These include candidiasis - a disease caused by the fungus of the same name, accompanied by thick vaginal discharge, similar to cottage cheese, and trichomoniasis, in which vaginal discharge becomes a greenish-yellow foamy character with a foul odor.
Other causes of vaginal itching are predominantly of organic in nature:
- diabetes;
- eating disorders; -
- menopause (in response to a drop in estrogen levels, the vaginal walls become drier);
- pregnancy (in this case also hormonal fluctuations change the vaginal microenvironment);
- vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis;
- bartholinitis;
- helminthic infestation (pinworms);
- allergic reactions to linen, medicines or detergents (including those used for washing clothes).
Vaginal itching can stimulate the need to scratch the itchy area to try to soften it, however, efforts must be made to resist the temptation, so as not to aggravate the problem.
If there is itching during intercourse, it makes sense to use a condom, to avoid possible infection, and not to aggravate the discomfort. Physiological vaginal discharge is transparent, viscous, moderate, and does not have an unpleasant odor. If the discharge changes color (has become yellowish, grayish, greenish or reddish), smell, texture (have become foamy) and volume, it is important to consult a gynecologist as soon as possible.
Recall also that a diet full of sugars, stress, the use of antibiotics, contraceptives and progestogens lead to a weakening of the immune system and, accordingly, can be a trigger for the development of one of the causes of vaginal itching.
Prevention of vaginal itching
To maintain a healthy balance of the vaginal flora, proper cleansing of the intimate areas is important. It is recommended to use a soap with physiological pH (4 or 5) and limit or exclude the use of intimate deodorants.
Avoid wearing synthetic underwear, too tight trousers that retain moisture and heat, creating favorable conditions for the development of pathogenic microorganisms. Sanitary pads should be changed as often as possible.
Do not use common towels at home, in the hotel, do not stay long in a wet bathing suit. Follow a healthy and balanced diet (in particular, reduce the intake of sweets and simple sugars). Practice regular exercise, and all of these little signs of attention to your body will be rewarded with an improvement in your immune performance.
