How is vaginal itching treated?

Itching may affect the vaginal opening or the surrounding vulval skin. Thrush can cause itching with soreness and a thick discharge; bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis may change discharge or odour. Dryness around menopause, contact with fragranced products, and inflammatory skin conditions such as lichen sclerosus can also irritate the area. A clinician may examine the skin and take a swab when the symptoms do not clearly identify the cause.

Use water or a fragrance-free emollient to wash externally, pat dry, and avoid douches, scented wipes, bubble bath, and tight synthetic clothing. Confirm the diagnosis before using an antifungal, because treating the wrong cause can prolong irritation. Confirmed thrush may be treated with antifungal medicine; inflamed vulval skin may need a prescribed topical steroid. Bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis require clinician-selected treatment, and a partner may need assessment for some infections.

Arrange an assessment if itching is new, persistent, recurrent, severe, or accompanied by unusual discharge, sores, bleeding, pelvic pain, fever, or pain when passing urine. Seek prompt care for rapidly worsening swelling or severe pain. Do not scratch damaged skin, and mention pregnancy, menopause, diabetes, or recent antibiotics because these details can change the evaluation.

Ask which cause is most likely, whether an examination or swab is needed, which products should be stopped, and how long treatment should be used. Ask what to do if symptoms return after treatment.