Vulvar itching is a very uncomfortable tingling irritation that affects the vulva, the area surrounding the vagina. The itching may be caused by uncomfortable clothes or other factors, like fungal infection. An onset of vulvar itching is such an uncomfortable experience for females, especially if it happens in a public place.
Women plagued with this problem can be seen doing frequent trips to the bathroom just to relieve themselves of the itch. However, the thing with this genital itch is that it doesn’t disappear with just a single scratch. It will bother you to no end, and you can’t do anything but endure the misery it brings.
Possible Causes of Vulvar Itching
The skin surrounding the vaginal area could experience severe itch due to the following factors:
- Vaginitis
This infection is common among women hitting puberty stage. Common symptoms of this condition are abnormal vaginal secretion odor, excessive discharge, inflammation, pain and itching.
- Chemical Irritants
Some products contain certain components that cause irritation of the genital area. Considering the sensitivity of the vagina and its surrounding area, it can easily get irritated with harsh elements. Sample of chemical irritants are creams, detergents, contraceptives, fabric softeners, douches and feminine sprays.
- Stress
You have increased chances of contracting various infections when you are stressed. Increased stress levels have the power to weaken the immune system, making you susceptible to diseases.
- Yeast Infection
Vaginal yeast infection is very common among women. Aside from vulvar itching, another telltale signs of infection is irritation of the vagina and its surrounding area. The most common causes of this type of yeast infection are weak immune system, pregnancy, use of birth control pills, diabetes, condom use, use of antibiotics and other medications, menstruation and sexual intercourse. Anything that causes mild or severe irritation to the genital area has a tendency to result to vaginal yeast infection which usually starts with itching.
- Menopause
As the woman ages, her estrogen levels starts to drop as well. This results to less lubrication and vaginal wall thinning. When this happens, the woman becomes more vulnerable to various types of infection in the genital area.
- Pinworms
This mainly results to an infection caused by parasites attacking the body. However, pinworms mostly affect children.
- Various Skin Conditions
There are various skin conditions that could affect the skin in the vulvar area. Some of these conditions may prove to be an onset of cancer.
Treatment Options
As a treatment option, the best strategy to cure genital itching is to observe proper hygiene. Always wash your genital area and keep it dry. Avoid scented products that may just cause irritation. Steer clear from sugary foods which may just trigger the onset of certain fungi, like yeast.
Also maintain a proper diet. Doing so will help you develop a strong immune system that will effectively fight off any harmful elements that might attack your body. Avoid excess heat, sweating and overexertion. Don’t stay drenched in sweat for too long as this will just attract fungal infection, same goes for wearing wet swimsuit or clothes.
If you are diagnosed with yeast infection or other genital infection, wait until you get properly treated before you become sexually active again. Always practice safe sex to avoid any sexually transmitted disease. Vulvar itching is not a serious condition, but it pays to be extra cautious.
