This condition refers to itching of the vulvar area. It can be caused by skin irritations, infections, hormonal changes or stress.
Symptoms of Vulvar Itching
Itching in the vulvar area
Thinning of the skin around the vulva
Causes
There are many potential causes of vulvar itching, including:
- Vulvar skin conditions (such as lichen sclerosus)
- Vulvar atrophy (thinning of the skin due to decrease in testosterone and estrogen)
- Contact sensitivity to irritants or allergens (such as detergents, soaps or feminine products)
- Recurrent vulvar infections (such as STIs, bacterial vaginosis or yeast infection)
- Chronic irritation due to scratching (lichen simplex chronicus)
- Menopause
- Stress
Preventions
The best way to prevent vulvar itching is to avoid scented products, such as soaps or detergents, change out of wet or damp clothing right away, wear cotton underwear, use condoms during intercourse, and always wipe from front to back after bowel movements. Treatment for vulvar itching depends on what’s causing your symptoms. Your pelvic pain doctor will prescribe antibiotics to clear STIs or bacterial vaginosis, and antifungal medications to treat yeast infections. For vaginal itching related to menopause, creams may help you find relief. Certain oral and topical medications can also bring relief.