Reproductive health

Vaginal Itching

By James S. Pendergraft
www.womenscenter.com

Vaginal itching or alternatively known as pruritus vulvae is the tingling irritation felt in the skin portion of the vagina and sometimes includes its surrounding area or vulva. The itchiness can be uneasy, making it impossible not to scratch the area affected.

The Causes

There can be many reasons as to why the vaginal area is irritated, including:

1. The use of chemical irritants like laundry soap and fabric softeners, feminine wash and sprays, contraceptive foams, creams and jellies.
2. Low estrogen level causing the vaginal wall to thin and produce lesser lubrication, as may happen during menopause.
3. Stress can make women susceptible and prone to infection causing vaginal irritation.
4. Vaginal yeast infection brought about by taking antibiotics, pregnancy, menstruation, sexual intercourse, and contraceptives such as pills and condoms. The infection can also be secondary to diabetes or a weak immune system.
5. Vaginitis or the inflammation of the vagina. Vaginitis eventually can have a foul-smelling discharge. This is manifested distinctively when a woman has a sexually transmitted disease.
6. Other skin conditions and parasitic infection, mainly pinworms.

The Remedy

Vaginal itching can be treated at home, except when the irritation becomes severe and unmanageable. It is then that medical help must be considered. Knowing the cause of the itchiness can aid in managing the vaginal uneasiness. Home care is the best alternative when it comes to treating and preventing vaginal itching. Home care may include:

1. Avoiding too much use of feminine wash and douches and the use of perfumed or colored tissue paper. Washing the vaginal area with hypoallergenic or unscented soap is enough to keep the area clean.
2. Wet clothing and underwear should be changed right away. The use of cotton underwear instead of synthetic materials can help prevent irritation.
3. Proper cleansing technique after urinating and bowel movement. The direction of washing or wiping should be from the front (vagina) to the back (anus). In this manner, bacteria in the anus area can be prevented from entering the vaginal area.
4. Observing proper and healthy diet to avoid becomiing overweight and to also avoid getting diabetes is the best solution for an overall health care. Eating yogurt regularly can also be helpful.

Seeking Medical Help

Although initial home care can help prevent further vaginal itching, it is important to know when to seek medical assistance. If efforts to treat vaginal itching at home sees no improvement or if the itchiness becomes worse, then it is time to call the doctor. Some of the signs that indicate the need to seek the advice of a medical professional include:

1. Increased appetite or thirst
2. Weight loss
3. Frequent urination with a burning sensation
4. Fatigue
5. Lower abdominal pain
6. Fever
7. Swelling and blisters in the vaginal area
8. Vaginal bleeding and unusual discharge

If going to the doctor is the ultimate means of relieving vaginal itching, give your doctor the necessary basic information in order to be diagnosed correctly and given the right medication. Typical examination includes vaginal discharge culture, Pap smear, biopsies and urine and blood studies.

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