Vaginal itching is a common symptom that can be caused by mild irritation in the genital area or infections like yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It may also be related to inflammation, allergies, menopause, or skin conditions that affect the vulva.
External vaginal itching often occurs with friction from synthetic underwear or irritating products, while internal itching is usually caused by fungi or bacteria and may come with swelling or discharge. Some conditions, such as lichen sclerosus or vulvar cancer, can also lead to persistent symptoms.
Treatment for vaginal itching depends on the cause and may include antifungals, antibiotics, hormone replacement therapy, or topical creams recommended by a healthcare provider. Keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding synthetic fabrics, and wearing cotton underwear can also help relieve symptoms and keep them from getting worse.
Online symptom quiz
To find out the reason for your vaginal itching, report the symptoms you are experiencing below:
Some of these symptoms are common in other conditions as well, therefore it is best to see your doctor if the itching does not resolve within 1 week with conservative treatment, such as keeping the vaginal area clean and dry, avoiding synthetic clothing, and eating less sugary foods.
What causes vaginal itching?
The most common causes of vaginal itching are:
1. Yeast infection
A yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is caused by excessive growth of Candida albicans. It can occur due to a weakened immune system or pH changes in the vagina.
Yeast infections can cause itching, burning, and a white cottage cheese-like discharge. Learn more about symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection and what can cause it.
What to do: Treatment for yeast infections normally consists of topical antifungal ointments or oral antifungal pills that are prescribed by a healthcare provider. You should also try sleeping without underwear and be sure to wash your genital area with just water and mild soap.
2. Allergies
Allergies may occur due to chlorine in baths or pool water, latex in condoms, lubricating gels, certain soaps, fabrics such as Lycra or microfiber, or even semen.
These allergies can cause itching and other symptoms like a burning sensation, redness, or swelling in the vaginal area.
What to do: Allergy treatment should be guided by a gynecologist, who will evaluate the possible causes and recommend the most appropriate medication, which may include corticosteroids or antihistamines.
It’s also important to avoid condoms that contain dyes, fragrances, or latex, and to wear cotton underwear, since cotton is less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions in the vaginal area.
However, in cases of semen allergy, using condoms during all sexual intercourse is recommended to prevent direct contact with semen.
3. Sexually transmitted infections
Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as trichomoniasis, genital warts, and genital herpes, can also cause vaginal itching.
What to do: When itching occurs after unprotected sex, it is important to see your doctor for evaluation and testing. If an STI is diagnosed, treatment may include antibiotics or antiviral medications.
4. Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis, or BV, is an infection caused by an imbalance in the vaginal flora. This imbalance can result from douching, hormonal changes, or a sexually transmitted infection (STI), which allow for an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina.
What to do: To treat BV, a healthcare provider will prescribe antibiotics, which may be oral or topical. In addition, you should use a condom during any sexual contact and avoid any alcohol.
5. Atrophic vaginitis
Atrophic vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina caused by a drop in estrogen levels in the body. This leads to symptoms like itching, discharge with a strong odor, and pain or burning when urinating.
This condition is more common in menopause, during breastfeeding, and while taking medications to treat cancer.
What to do: Treatment of atrophic vaginitis should be managed by a gynecologist, who may recommend the use of estrogen (oral or topical), lubricants, and analgesic medications.
6. Cytolytic vaginosis
Cytolytic vaginosis occurs due to an overgrowth of lactobacilli, which are naturally present in the vagina, causing a decrease in the vaginal pH.
This condition can cause symptoms similar to those of a yeast infection, including vaginal itching and a thick, cottage cheese-like discharge without odor.
What to do: To treat cytolytic vaginosis, a gynecologist may recommend vaginal suppositories, douching, or sitz baths with sodium bicarbonate to reduce lactobacilli levels and raise vaginal pH.
7. Lichen planus
Lichen planus is an inflammatory illness that is caused by an immune response to medications, chemicals, or stress. Symptoms include vaginal itching and burning.
What to do: Treatment for lichen planus should be guided by a dermatologist or gynecologist and may involve the use of anti-histamines, corticosteroids, and psychotherapy if stress-related.
8. Lichen sclerosis
Lichen sclerosis is an inflammatory skin condition triggered by genetic and immune factors. It can lead to symptoms like vaginal itching, irritation, peeling, and blisters.
What to do: To treat lichen sclerosis, a healthcare provider may prescribe topical corticosteroids. Avoid scratching the area, wear cotton underwear, and cleanse the area using only water and a mild soap.
9. Vulvar cancer
Vulvar cancer is a type of cancer that affects the outside part of the genital area around the vaginal opening. It can cause symptoms like itching, pain, bleeding between periods, sores, lumps or warts, and changes in the color or texture of the vulva.
What to do: Vulvar cancer is treated by an oncologist, who may recommend radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or surgery.
10. Dermatitis
Dermatitis is an inflammatory condition that can affect the vaginal area. It is characterized by decreased oil production in the vulva, but may be triggered by irritating products like soaps or perfumes. Common symptoms include irritation, itching, redness, and skin peeling.
What to do: Treatment will vary based on the type of dermatitis and may include the use of topical corticosteroids or antifungals. A healthcare provider may also recommend additional home measures, such as keeping the vaginal area clean and dry and avoiding very hot baths or showers.
11. Genital psoriasis
Genital psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that can affect the vulvar skin. This can cause intense itching with red patches and peeling.
What to do: To treat genital psoriasis, a doctor may prescribe corticosteroid ointments as well as oral anti-inflammatories. Learn more about what causes genital psoriasis and how it's treated.
12. Menopause
Menopause can cause vaginal and vulvar itching due to a decrease in circulating estrogen levels.
This decrease in estrogen weakens the protective barrier of the genital skin and decreases the amount of vaginal secretions, leading to dryness, irritation, and itching.
What to do: To treat vaginal itching related to menopause, a gynecologist may prescribe hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to help reduce symptoms, along with topical creams or gels to help moisturize the vaginal area.
In addition, it is recommended to use cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight clothing that can cause excessive sweating in the genital region and make itching worse.
Prevention measures
Ways to prevent vaginal and vulvar itching include:
- Wearing cotton underwear, and avoiding synthetic materials that don’t allow the skin to breathe;
- Performing adequate hygiene, washing only the external vaginal area (vulva) with a mild soap, especially after sex;
- Avoiding wearing tight clothing to prevent heat buildup and sweating in the area;
- Changing your menstrual pads or tampons at least every 4 to 5 hours so that the vagina is not in constant contact with fungus or bacteria in the area;
- Using condoms during sexual intercourse to prevent STIs.
These tips also help relieve irritation and itching that is already present. Avoiding sugary foods is also recommended.