Vaginal Itching

by Adelaide G. Nardone, MD,
Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Vaginal itching, also known as vulvovaginal itching (VVI), is a symptom that affects the genital area.

The vulva consists of the external area of skin and its multiple components consisting of: the labia, (minor and major), the clitoris, the urethra, the perineum (area between vaginal opening and anus) and the vestibule (opening to the vagina).

The vagina is the hollow tube that connects the external structures to the internal uterine cervix.

Vulvovaginal itching (VVI) is a sign that something is "not right" in the genital area. In fact, itching (also called pruritis) is the most common symptom of skin disorders and can be due to a variety of reasons ranging from a simple irritation to a serious infection. You can use the Vagisil Screening Kit to test for vaginal infections at home to help you know if you have a yeast infection or something more.

A list of some of the more common causes of Vulvovaginal itching includes:

• Vulvovaginal infections such as:
  • Yeast (Candidiasis), Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), Trichomoniasis and other infections such as, Bacteria( Group A or B strep), and Herpes.
  • Infestations such as: Lice, scabies or pinworm.
• Non-infectious causes for Vulvovaginal itching include:
  • Contact Dermatitis (an allergic reaction to a fabric, soap, or product),
  • Vulvar Skin Conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, lichen schlerosis, lichen planus, and vulvar cancer.
  • Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis (a rare form of inflammatory vaginitis more common in older women),
  • Dryness possibly caused by washing, certain medications, or radiation therapy.
  • Hormonally induced vaginal dryness, also called "vaginal atrophy",associated with low estrogen levels commonly occurring in peri and post menopausal women,
  • Contact irritation (skin irritation caused by fabric, pads or detergents).

Do's of Vulvovaginal itching:

• Do consult with your gynecologist provider for a definitive diagnosis
• Do use cotton undergarments and avoid tight clothing
• Do wash with a gentle cleanser such a Vagisil® Wash to help prevent irritation
• Do wash your undergarments with a dye-free detergent
• Do try to keep the area clean and dry (Vagisil® Deodorant Powder will help here)
• Do alleviate itching with topical Vagisil® Satin (1% Hydrocortisone Acetate), or Vagisil® Anti-Itch Creme or Vagisil Wipes
• Do screen yourself for vaginal infections at home with the Vagisil Screening Kit

Don'ts of Vulvovaginal itching:

• Don't scratch the itch
• Don't have sex if you are concerned of contagion.
• Don't self treat without a proper evaluation and diagnosis

For more information go to: http://www.vagisil.com