Vaginal Itch

Vaginal itch affects most women at some point of their lives. Majority of the time this is temporary and goes away on its own. Causes of vaginal itch include:

Skin irritants

• Soap
• Douches
• Feminine sprays 
• Laundry detergents
• Fabric softeners
• Scented/colored toilet paper 
• Creams or ointments 

Skin conditions 

• Eczema
• Lichen sclerosis: more common in women who are menopaused, this skin condition causes patchy white and thin skin in the genital area 
• Contact dermatitis: this is when something is in contact with the vagina or vulva e.g. women who wear pads/diapers for long periods of time, or in women who suffer urinary incontinence
• Atrophic vaginitis: menopausal skin changes in the vagina due to a lack of estrogen causes vaginal skin to thin out and vaginal pH to be higher/less acidic resulting in increased risks of itch and infection 

Infections

This can be non-sexually transmitted or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and usually occurs with vaginal discharge.

Vulvar cancer (rare)

Vulvar cancer does not always cause symptoms. Some women may experience bleeding, pain or skin changes in the area.

When should I be concerned about my vaginal itch?

If the itch is significant enough to interfere with your daily life or sleep, or if you have associated symptoms such as vulva ulcers/blisters, vaginal pain, redness, swelling, painful urination, unusual vaginal discharge, painful sex, bleeding in between periods or bleeding after sex, you should see your gynaecologist. 

What tests do I need?

Your gynaecologist will take a detailed medical history and perform a pelvic examination to check your vulva, vagina, cervix and uterus. Depending on your symptoms, you may require vaginal swabs or skin biopsy.

Is there treatment for vaginal itch?

Treatment depends on the cause for your vaginal itch. Discuss with your gynaecologist about the appropriate options for you. Treatment options may include:

Lifestyle changes

See vulva care for more information.

Vaginal creams or pessaries

These may come in the form of steroid creams (caution about using these long-term as it may thin out the skin further) or topical female estrogen (in cases of menopausal skin changes). 

Antibiotics 

For cases of infection.