What causes vaginal itching and irritation?
From sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to skin-related conditions to menopause, vaginal itching can be a symptom of various underlying causes. Here are some of the common culprits.
Irritants
The most common cause of persistent vaginal irritation is sensitive skin in and around your vulva (the external area that includes the labia, clitoris and skin around the vagina).
This sensitivity may be particularly noticeable after using certain chemical irritants or toiletries, including common culprits like:
- Soaps
- Perfumes
- Deodorants
- Condoms
- Wet wipes
- Creams
- Sanitary pads or tampons
- Bubble baths
You may also have vaginal irritation after using particular fabric conditioners or detergents to wash your clothes. For this reason, it’s important to be mindful of the products you’re using in and around your vaginal area.
Vaginal yeast infections (thrush)
Vaginal yeast infections, also known as vaginal thrush, are a common cause of vaginal itching in women between the ages of puberty and menopause.
While many people mistake it for an STI, thrush is actually caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina, which can result in several uncomfortable symptoms alongside itching and irritation:
- White vaginal discharge (often cottage cheese-like in texture)
- Soreness and pain when having sex or peeing
- Redness and swelling of the vagina and vulva
Thrush can sometimes be linked to using antibiotics, as these can destroy the balance of good bacteria that help keep the yeast in your vagina in check. So, if you're taking antibiotics and experiencing symptoms, it's important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
STIs
There are certain STIs that can cause vaginal itching as a symptom. These include:
- Genital warts – small, rough lumps that can appear around the vagina or anus
- Genital herpes – an STI that causes small blisters to develop and burst around the vagina, thighs or bottom
- Trichomoniasis – an STI caused by a parasite, often leading to thick, thin or frothy vaginal discharge
If you suspect that an STI might be the cause of your itchy vagina, make an appointment at your local sexual health clinic for tailored medical advice.
Skin conditions
Vaginal itching can also result from various skin issues.
For example, eczema is a skin condition linked to vaginitis – a common issue that causes soreness and swelling of the vagina. This can lead to itchy patches of skin, which may appear in areas across your body, including your vulva.
Other skin conditions associated with vaginal itching include lichen planus and psoriasis, which present in different ways. So, if your itchiness isn’t going away, it’s important to consult your doctor for guidance.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy can cause the veins in your vulva to become swollen, which can result in symptoms like itching.
Being pregnant can also increase your risk of experiencing vaginal yeast infections due to the hormonal changes your body goes through as the baby grows. This is especially noticeable during the third trimester, so you may find yourself having an itchier vagina later on in your pregnancy.*
After you’ve given birth, breastfeeding can contribute to vaginal itching as well, due to having lower levels of oestrogen in your body. So, speak to your doctor for advice on how to minimise your risk of vaginal itching if you’re concerned.
Menopause
Talking of fluctuating hormones, menopause can cause a decline in oestrogen too, leading to thinning and dryness of the skin around your vulva. This can result in a variety of symptoms, as well as vaginal itching:
- Hot flushes
- Night sweats and sleeping difficulties
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood swings
- Reduced sex drive
- Joint stiffness, aches and pains
For more information on the key signs of menopause, visit our CanesMeno® Digital Hub.
What can I do about an itchy vagina?
Having an itchy vagina may feel awkward and uncomfortable, but there are several things you can do to help relieve your symptoms and make them more manageable.
If you think you might have a vaginal infection, the Canestest® Self-Test for Vaginal Infections allows you to test before treating, helping ensure that the treatment you choose is the right one for you.
However, finding the right course of action will depend on what’s causing your itchy vagina in the first place.
- For vaginal yeast infections like thrush, you may be recommended an over-the-counter product like Canesten® Thrush Duo Oral Capsule & External Cream – a combined treatment designed to address both the cause and symptoms of thrush.
- For STIs like trichomoniasis, you might be prescribed a course of antibiotics.
- For menopause-related symptoms, you may be recommended hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to help increase your oestrogen levels.
- For skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, you may be advised to use an emollient, moisturiser or steroid.
Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about your vaginal itching to receive personalised advice and support.
Are there any ways to prevent an itchy vagina?
There are a number of small changes you can make to help prevent an irritated or itchy vagina. Here are some top tips to consider:
- Avoid using any toiletries or products that could irritate your vagina
- Use mild moisturisers to help ease the itchiness
- Try to avoid scratching the area
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and cotton underwear
- Change your underwear on a daily basis
- Gently wash your vagina once a day, ideally in the shower rather than in a bath
- Make sure your vagina is completely dry before putting your underwear on
- Avoid shaving your pubic hair
When should I see a doctor about an itchy vagina?
If your vaginal itching doesn’t go away, you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible to help identify the root cause.
They’ll be able to advise you on the most effective treatment or lifestyle changes you can make to help relieve your symptoms.
If your vagina is feeling itchy, don’t worry – most women experience vaginal itching from time to time. But, if you’re concerned, your doctor will be able to help you identify the underlying cause and find the right course of action.
*Medicines can affect the unborn baby. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine in pregnancy.
