Female vaginal itch is a common condition that develops due to inflammation or irritation of the sensitive vaginal tissue. Mild or sporadic vaginal itching is normal in most women and typically resolves without medical treatment. Women who experience severe or persistent vaginal itching should seek medical care to ensure receipt of appropriate treatment. Female vaginal itch is primarily caused by vaginal irritation, infection, hormonal changes or disease.
Vaginal Irritation
Vaginal exposure to chemical irritants can cause vaginal itch in certain women. These chemicals can include soap, laundry detergent, vaginal creams, toilet paper, condoms or contraceptive foams, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Sensations of itching due to vaginal irritation typically arise shortly after exposure to the chemical irritant. Vaginal itch symptoms caused by irritation typically resolve without medical treatment, but can recur upon reexposure to the chemical irritant.
Vaginal Infections
Bacterial or viral infections that develop within the vagina can cause vaginal itch symptoms in affected females. Vaginal yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, vaginitis and certain sexually transmitted diseases, such as trichomoniasis or chlamydia, can cause mild to intense vaginal itching, Cleveland Clinic health experts report. Typically, women with a vaginal infection experience additional side effects, such as unusual vaginal discharge or odor, in conjunction with vaginal itch symptoms. Affected women should consult a gynecologist, as vaginal itching caused by an infection typically requires antibiotic or antifungal medication to resolve uncomfortable itching symptoms.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes, such as a decrease in estrogen due to menopause, can alter a woman's vaginal tissues. Low estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness or thinning of the vaginal tissue, which can cause female vaginal itch in affected women, MedlinePlus medical professionals explain. Women who are bothered by vaginal itch symptoms caused by hormonal changes should talk with a doctor, as vaginal treatments are available that can help restore vaginal lubrication.
Systemic Skin Conditions
Certain systemic skin conditions, such as psoriasis or lichen sclerosus, can cause female vaginal itch symptoms, the Merck Manual Online Medical Library reports. Affected women can develop dry, irritated or discolored patches of skin across the external vaginal tissue. These vaginal skin lesions can cause inflammation, which can lead to mild to severe vaginal itch symptoms in females. Frequent scratching of the affected vaginal regions can exacerbate itch symptoms and may increase a woman's risk of developing a vaginal infection.
