Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Vaginal Itching

It’s one of those common womanly woes that strikes when you least expect it: vaginal itching. This uncomfortable, sometimes painful symptom has many causes. Let’s explore them:

Yeast Infection

A yeast infection is a super common infection of the genitals that causes vaginal discharge, inflammation, irritation, and intense itching in the vagina, especially the vulva area. Yeast infections can be typically treated via OTC creams, or speak with your doctor if the issue persists.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Another common reason for itching is B.V., which is caused by a change in vaginal pH. It often feels like a yeast infection (and treatment options are similar), but the discharge is different and the odor is typically stronger.

Skin Condition

Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can cause irritation in the genitals and vaginal itching along with a rash-like appearance. Speak with your doctor about how to treat conditions like these.

STD

Scary as it might sound, there are tons of STDS out there waiting to be caught via unprotected sex, and many of them come with intense vaginal itching, like chlamydia, herpes, trichomoniasis, and gonorrhea. If you have itching, in addition to common STD symptoms like foul discharge, burning while you pee, sores, or pain during sex, speak with your doctor about treatment options.

Hormones

Oh, hormones, how you love to mess with us. A fluctuation in hormone levels, which is typical during various points in our cycle (menstruation being one), can cause mild itching. If the discomfort is intense, speak with your doctor about a topical cream.

The vaginal itch, although common, can be a symptom of something more serious and if you’re concerned, a visit to the doctor is the easiest path toward feeling better (body and soul).