Vaginal itching
Alternative names:
pruritus vulvae; itching in the vaginal area; vulvar itching
Definition:
Persistent itching of the vagina
and frequently the surrounding area (vulva).
Considerations:
Many of the conditions that cause vaginal itching are related
to irritation of the skin. Avoid fabrics, perfumes,
or other known irritants.
Common causes:
- a chemical irritant
or medication (including detergents
and fabric softeners, chemical sprays, ointments, creams,
douches, and contraceptive foams)
- vaginal infection in conjunction with antibiotic use
- vaginitis (vaginal
yeast infection)
- vaginal discharge caused by other vaginal infections
such as trichomonas vaginitis and hemophilus vaginalis
- menopause (in women
older than 35 (typically) years of age), as a result of
decreasing levels of estrogen
- pruritus vulvae (a non-contagious condition)
- vulvovaginitis before
puberty (children only)
- pinworms
- lichen sclerosis
- certain skin conditions of the vulvar skin (may be precancerous)
Note: There may be other causes of vaginal itching. This
list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented
in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include
unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes
may vary based on the age of the woman, as well as on the
specific characteristics of the symptom such as time course,
aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints.
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
editorial
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