Causes of vaginal itching

Vaginal itching is an uncomfortable, yet common occurrence. There are a number of causes, and most require medical treatment.

This article provides an overview of common causes of vaginal itching, along with links to more detailed articles.

Yeast infections

Most women will experience a vaginal yeast infection during their lifetime. Though these aren't usually serious, yeast infection symptoms can be bothersome.

Normally, a balance of healthful bacteria and yeast live in the vagina. The bacteria keep yeast in check, preventing overgrowth. When the vagina's bacteria do not properly control the yeast balance, yeast overgrowth can occur.

Yeast infections can cause bothersome itching and burning.

Symptoms of yeast overgrowth can include:

• itching
• burning
• odorless white or clear discharge
• irritation

Yeast infections usually occur when something upsets the vagina's bacteria balance. Common causes include:

• douching
• hormone changes, such as during pregna or from using hormonal birth control
• use of antibiotics

Some health conditions may also make a woman more likely to get a yeast infection. A weakened immune system or uncontrolled diabetes may increase the risk.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

This common bacterial infection, also known as BV, often affects women of childbearing age. BV occurs when the normal, healthful bacteria in the vagina become unbalanced.

Many women who get BV have no symptoms. However, it can cause a watery vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor, as well as burning and itching around the vaginal area.

The cause of BV isn't always known. But, in many cases, BV is caused by one of the following:

• douching, which may upset the vagina's natural bacteria
• bathing with antiseptic or antibacterial products
• having a new sex partner or multiple sex partners
• using strongly scented products in the vag area
• harsh clothing detergents
• smoking

Many women may get BV and not know it, since it often causes no symptoms. However, it can be potentially dangerous to a pregnant woman and her fetus. A pregnant woman should discuss any vaginal itching, burning, or discharge with her doctor and get tested for BV when needed.

A BV test involves taking a sample of fluid from the vagina and sending it to a lab for analysis. If the test is positive, a pregnant woman will likely undergo treatment with antibiotics.

Because BV is a result of an imbalance of bacteria, replacing the body's "friendly" bacteria may be helpful in some women.

A 2014 review found that certain probiotics, when taken by mouth, might help prevent or treat BV. The probiotics studied were Lactobacillus acidophilus , Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, and Lactobacillus fermentum RC-14.

Various probiotics are available to buy online. Compare products, and the specific probiotics they contain, before making a purchase.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

STDs, also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can occur as a result of having sexual contact with an infected person.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that STDs are at an unprecedented high in the United States, with millions of cases reported each year. People can reduce the risk of getting an STD by:

• abstaining from sex
• using a condom correctly each time. Differ types of condoms are available to buy onli
• having fewer sex partners
• getting tested for STDs before having sex
• getting treatment when needed
• getting the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine

Many STDs can cause vaginal itching, among other symptoms. It's important to have STDs treated, as some may cause long-term problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease , infertility , and pregnancy complications. A woman can also pass certain STDs to her baby during childbirth.

Source: Medical web