More than one condition can cause itching of the vagina, all of which are types of a condition known as vaginitis. This Mayo Clinic explains that vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina, resulting in itching, discharge and pain. The cause depends on the specific type of vaginitis a woman has, as does the treatment.
Yeast Infections
The cause of yeast infections, according to the Cleveland Clinic, is a fungus known as candida. Candida is typically found in small amounts in the vagina. It also lives in the mouth and digestive tract of both men and women.
A yeast infection occurs when certain factors, such as medications and hormones, cause an overgrowth of the fungus. While candida lives in the vagina, these factors can interfere with its normal balance. For instance, medication taken for a tooth infection can kill the good bacteria in the vagina, resulting in an overgrowth of candida, thus resulting in a vaginal yeast infection. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can do the same.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease. The cause of this infection is an organism known as a protozoa called Trichomonas vaginalis. This infection is spread through intercourse with someone who has the disease. While it affects the urinary tract of men, it infects the vagina of women, the Mayo Clinic explains. Aside from itching, women may also experience soreness in the vagina and burning with urination.
Non-Infectious Vaginitis
In some cases, women experience vaginal itching that has nothing to do with an infection. These include using a soap made of perfume or from douching, spermicides, vaginal sprays and scented detergents. All of these can irritate the skin of the vulva and vagina, resulting in vaginal itching. A decrease in hormones after natural menopause, or surgical removal of the ovaries are additional causes, according to the Mayo Clinic.
