Vaginal itching refers to an uncomfortable feeling that affects the skin of the vagina and vulva (surrounding vaginal skin regions). Sometimes, vaginal itching can occur as a result of a bacterial infection or certain chemicals. In some instances, a worm infection can lead to vaginal itching.
Vaginal Yeast Infection
A vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis or monolial vaginitis, refers to a condition commonly caused by the fungus Candida albicans. The University of Maryland Medical Center says specific symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include vaginal and labial itching, painful urination, pain with sexual intercourse, vulvar redness and a vaginal discharge that may appear white and cottage cheese-like.
Treatment for a vaginal yeast infection involves using over-the-counter anti-fungal vaginal creams such as miconazole or clotrimazole. Vaginal suppositories are also available to treat vaginal yeast infections.
Vulvovaginitis
MedlinePlus says vulvovaginitis refers to an infection or inflammation of the vagina or vulva. Specific symptoms of vulvovaginitis include itching or irritation of the genitalia region, vaginal discharge, pain with urination and redness, swelling or irritation of the regions surrounding the vagina or perineal region.
Yeasts, bacteria, parasites and viruses cause vulvovaginitis. In some cases, certain underlying conditions such as bacterial vaginosis and trichomonas vaginitis can lead to vulvovaginitis. In some cases, bubble baths, perfumes, sprays, vaginal contraceptives and tight clothing can lead to vaginal itching.
Treatment for vulvovaginitis may involve taking or applying oral or topical antibiotic or antifungal creams or medications. Also, warm-water baths (sitz baths) and wearing clean cotton underwear can also help manage vulvovaginitis.
Pinworms
MedlinePlus says pinworms are tiny worms that creep into the intestines and wreak havoc with the body. In fact, it says pinworms are the most common form of cancer in the United States.
Symptoms of pinworms include itching around the anus or vagina. Pinworms also lead to trouble sleeping, irritability, a poor appetite and weight loss.
Treatment for pinworm involves taking such medications as mebendazole or albendazole to eliminate the pinworm.
Other Causes
Other causes of vaginal itching include menopause, stress and certain chemical irritants, says MedlinePlus. Menopausal women experience a decline in estrogen; this leads to thinning of the vagina and decreased lubrication. Stress can promote itching and lead to infections. Chemical irritants such as detergent, ointments, creams and douches can lead to vaginal itching. Other causes can include such sexually transmitted infections as bacterial vaginosis. Note that bacterial vaginosis is not always sexually transmitted. It's a condition in which the normal bacteria in the vagina grow rapidly.
