Itchiness in the genital area can be really uncomfortable and if it persists for a long time, it may affect your quality of life. The root of the condition could be lifestyle choices as well as serious medical conditions.
We spoke to Dr Anjali Kumar, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugramto better understand the reasons and preventative measures for itchy genitals.
Using intimate hygiene products, fancy soaps, bubble baths, and other such products can hamper the pH level of the vagina. An imbalanced pH level can cause problems like itching and a burning sensation.
Vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection that can be the cause behind itching in the genital area. It can also affect diabetes patients, pregnant women, and women using antibiotics or other things that alter the pH of the vagina and make it more susceptible to fungus infections.
Thick, irritating discharge from the vagina is an indication of vaginal yeast infection.
Another potential cause of this condition is bacterial vaginosis, also referred to as BV infection. Patients with BV infection complain of white discharge and a fishy odour.
STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital herpes, etc could also be the cause of itchiness in the genital area.
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In postmenopausal women, because of a lack of oestrogen, the vaginal skin becomes thin, which can cause itching.
In older women, there might be cancerous cells developing in the genital area.
If a woman of any age experiences vaginal itching for more than a week without being able to identify the cause, she should consult a doctor immediately. It is especially important if they have any blisters, ulcers, redness, swelling, difficulty urinating, or other conditions in this area.
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Using fancy soaps, bubble baths, scented pads, scented panty liners, deodorants, intimate wash, or other items down there that can alter the vaginal pH, can cause itching or burning feelings in the vulvar area.
Washing panties in chemicals like Dettol or Salon is another common reason behind itching in the genital area.
Women often wash the vulval area after peeing or use vaginal wash or spray, however, this should be avoided. Women should only wash their area once while bathing with mild soap and water as part of routine vulvar care. There is no need to clean that area again.
For additional cleaning, take a wet cotton cloth and wash your vulvar area from front to back.
Wear cotton panties as they can prevent the growth of any bad bacteria and microorganisms. This can prevent any infections or rashes.
Virgin coconut oil has anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory effects. You can use them as part of genital care.
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