Mild vaginal itching and irritation is a common occurrence. Vaginal itching can cause stress and embarrassment, making women hesitant to seek a physician. Most women can easily treat the cause of their vaginal itching with small, simple changes such as switching laundry detergent or toilet papers. Many women experience severe vaginal itching and irritation as well as other symptoms which may indicate a serious underlying condition.
Chemical Irritants
Chemical irritants such as detergents, fabric softeners, soaps and bubble baths often contain harsh irritants. These chemical irritants can affect the delicate inner membranes of the vagina causing swelling and irritation as well as itching. Chemical irritants such as douches, ointments and contraceptive foam or jelly can upset the natural bacterial flora that protect the vagina from an overgrowth of yeast, leaving her more susceptible to yeast infections. Treatment for vaginal itching and irritation from chemical irritants involves removing the cause of the irritation. If the cause is unknown, women should avoid colored or perfumed toilet tissues or bath oils. According to the National Institutes of Health, women should also avoid feminine hygiene douches and scented soaps.
Vaginal Yeast Infections
A yeast fungus known as Candida albicans causes vaginal yeast infections. People normally have small amounts of yeast in the vagina, mouth, skin and digestive tract. Healthy bacteria found in the body keep the fungus from growing out of control. Overuse of antibiotics may kill off the healthy bacteria and cause a proliferation of candida albicans. Being pregnant, obesity and diabetes all increase the chances of developing a yeast infection.
The National Institutes of Health warn that vaginal yeast infections can cause discharge ranging from watery, white discharge to thick, white cottage cheese-like discharge. Other symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection can include painful urination, pain with intercourse, redness and swelling of the vulva and vaginal itching and burning. Treatment of a yeast infection includes anti-fungal medications such as miconazole, clotrimazole and butoconazole. Medications most often come as a cream or suppository used for three to seven days.
Trichomoniasis
Another cause of vaginal itching and irritation is a disease known as trichomoniasis. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted disease, with an estimated 7.4 million new cases every year. Trichomoniasis is caused by the parasite, trichomonas vaginalis.
Symptoms of infections include frothy green discharge with a strong odor. Trichomoniasis may cause discomfort during intercourse and urination as well as irritation and itching of the female genital area. Symptoms usually appear within five to 28 days of exposure. Treatment for trichomoniasis most often includes the drugs metronidazole or tinidazole.
