What is the reason for itching of female vulva?

Female genital itching may be caused by vulvovaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, contact dermatitis, pubic lice, vulvar lichen sclerosus, etc. It can be relieved by keeping the area clean, taking medication, and avoiding contact with irritants.

1. Vulvovaginal candidiasis

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is usually caused by the overgrowth of Candida yeast and presents with symptoms such as vulvar itching, tofu-like leucorrhea, and burning sensation. It may be related to long-term use of antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes and other factors. You can use clotrimazole vaginal tablets, miconazole nitrate suppositories, fluconazole capsules and other drugs as directed by your doctor. Keep the vulva dry every day and avoid wearing tight chemical fiber underwear.

2. Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is often caused by an imbalance of vaginal flora and is often accompanied by gray-white fishy-smelling discharge. Excessive vaginal washing and frequent sexual intercourse may induce this disease. Medications such as metronidazole suppositories, clindamycin phosphate vaginal gel, and tinidazole tablets can be used for treatment. It is recommended to avoid using alkaline lotions to clean the vulva and pay attention to cleanliness before and after sex.

3. Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory reaction caused by contact with allergens or irritants on the vulva skin, manifesting as itching, redness, swelling, and papules. Common triggers include inferior sanitary napkins, shower gel, laundry detergent, etc. Suspicious products need to be stopped immediately. Hydrocortisone cream or oral loratadine tablets can be applied topically to relieve symptoms. Choosing pure cotton underwear and hypoallergenic toiletries can help prevent recurrence.

4.Pubic lice disease

Pubic pediculosis is caused by the bite of the parasite pubic lice on the skin. The itching worsens at night and gray-blue spots or lice are visible to the naked eye. It is mainly spread through sexual contact or shared clothing. Treatment requires shaving the pubic hair, using Lindane cream or permethrine cream, and simultaneously treating close contacts. All clothing and bed sheets need to be disinfected at high temperature.

5. Vulvar lichen sclerosus

Vulvar lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin disease characterized by thinning and whitening of the vulvar skin with severe itching, which may be related to autoimmune abnormalities. Diagnosis requires biopsy, and drugs such as clobetasol propionate ointment and tacrolimus ointment are commonly used for treatment. Scratching should be avoided on a daily basis and regular follow-up visits should be made to monitor changes in the condition.

Women who experience vulvar itching should avoid using lotion to rinse or scratch themselves, choose loose and breathable cotton underwear, and wash the vulva with warm water every day. Reduce the intake of spicy foods and maintain a regular schedule. If the itching lasts for more than 3 days or is accompanied by symptoms such as abnormal discharge or ulcers, you need to go to a gynecologist or dermatologist in time to complete routine leucorrhea, dermoscopy and other examinations to determine the cause. Do not use hormonal ointments for a long time without the guidance of a doctor to avoid masking the condition or causing skin atrophy.