The vulva is the external female genitalia and includes the labia, clitoris and the tissue surrounding the urethra and vaginal openings. Vulvar itching occurs when the delicate tissue is exposed to certain chemicals or bacteria, or in response to a few health conditions, according to MedlinePlus and the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Vulvar Dermatitis
Chemicals may cause an allergic reaction of the vulvar tissue, called vulvar dermatitis. Vulvar dermatitis is characterized by inflammation, redness and itching. Irritation of the tissue is caused by products such as deodorized pads or tampons, feminine hygiene products, soaps, laundry detergents and fabric softeners. To treat itching as a result of dermatitis, avoid the irritating product, obtain a steroidal ointment from a physician and soak the affected region in a bath of water with 4 to 5 tbsp. of baking soda, according to Drexel University College of Medicine.
Yeast Infection
A yeast infection, caused by the yeast species candida albicans, causes itching of the vulvar tissue in addition to inflammation, pain, swelling and burning. The thick, white discharge -- produced by the yeast infection within the vagina -- leaks out, irritating the vulva. Yeast infections are treated with an over-the-counter antifungal medication or by taking an oral antifungal drug prescribed by a physician. Over-the-counter yeast infection treatment kits usually come with a topical ointment to soothe the vulvar tissue, according to University of Maryland Medical Center.
Vulvitis
Vulvitis is a condition that causes itching, inflammation, swelling and pain of the vulvar tissue and is caused by infections, allergens, hormonal changes, menopause, drugs, tumors, viruses or radiation therapy. Vaginitis may occur at the same time as vulvitis, and it may cause a foul-smelling discharge from the vagina. According to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center at Penn State University, treatment involves avoiding the irritant and using prescribed vaginal creams, suppositories or antibiotics.
Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer begins with abnormal cell growth in the vulvar tissue. This type of cancer is more prevalent with age or as a response to the human papillomavirus, or HPV. Signs and symptoms include itching, a lump in the tissue, pain and bleeding unrelated to the menstrual cycle. Depending upon the stage of cancer development, treatment involves laser treatment to kill the cancerous cells, radiation, chemotherapy or surgery to remove the affected tissue, according to the University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vaginal Itching
- Drexel University College of Medicine: Irritant Dermatitis of the Vulva
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vaginal Yeast Infection
- Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center College of Medicine: Vaginitis
- University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center: Vulvar Cancer Treatment
