When it comes to vaginal itching, there are a few common causes - and it’s not always a yeast infection! Here are the top three reasons you have vaginal itching and how to stop itching down there immediately.
Is it Vaginal Itching?
When we’re talking about sweet spots, it’s important to get the words right. Using accurate language could be the difference between a correct diagnosis and getting stuck in the frustrating cycle of misdiagnosis.
Often, people use the word vagina to refer to everything below the belt. But the vagina is just the muscular tube inside the body - the part you can’t see with your eyes. Vulva, on the other hand, is a catch-all term for all your external genitalia. So before you can get relief for itching down there, take a second to figure out if you have an itchy vulva or vaginal itching.
Top Causes of Vulvar & Vaginal Itching
1. Irritants
Exposure to harsh ingredients can irritate your vagina and your vulva. Scented menstrual hygiene products, bubble bath, body washes with sulfates, and even essential oils can lead to contact dermatitis – an itchy skin condition that comes with redness, stinging and burning. Contact dermatitis is one of the most common causes of vulvar and vaginal itching, but it’s often mistaken for a yeast infection. To avoid itching and irritation, look for personal care products that are free from sulfates and other common irritants like our hypoallergenic feminine washes and wipes. They’re clinically proven non-irritating and recommended by gynecologists.
2. Infection
Itching doesn’t always indicate an infection, but it can be a symptom of some vaginal infections. Here are a few of the most common.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea can come with itching, irritation and even painful urination. If you suspect you may have contracted an STI, consult with your medical provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Yeast Infection
Your sweet spots are home to naturally occurring (harmless) yeast. But too much of that yeast can cause some serious itching in the form of a yeast infection. If the vaginal itching (external or internal) is accompanied by discharge that’s thick or clumpy in consistency and has an unusual odor, this can indicate a yeast infection. Just remember it’s not always a yeast infection! Be sure to consult your medical provider for proper diagnosis. Mis-diagnosing and treating yourself for a vaginal yeast infection could actually make things worse.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Just like a yeast infection is triggered by an imbalance of yeast, bacterial vaginosis is triggered by an imbalance of bacteria. If the natural balance of good and bad bacteria on your intimate skin is off-balance, BV can show up in the form of vaginal itching and a grey-ish, bubbly fishy-smelling discharge. It can be easily treated with antibiotics, so be sure to see your provider if you think you might have BV.
If you’re prone to imbalance, Microbiome Balancing Cleanser can help you maintain healthy levels of yeast and bacteria.
SHOP MICROBIOME BALANCING WASH
3. Dryness
Vaginal itching is sometimes linked to dryness. For anyone in perimenopause or menopause, estrogen loss causes dryness, and can lead to an itchy vulva or even an itchy vaginal opening. Dryness is also common during postpartum and at certain points of the menstrual cycle due to fluctuating hormones. Using Hydrate Ever After daily can help replenish moisture, prevent dryness and therefore prevent external vaginal itching.
How to Stop Itching Down There Immediately
For instant itch relief, Rescue Balm is your new best friend. 99% naturally-derived and without the harsh ingredients and toxins found in other vaginal itch relief creams, Rescue Balm is the safest way to stop itching down there immediately. Plus it actually works (BIG plus if you ask us). Gynecologists recommend it, and almost 90% of women who use Rescue Balm would recommend it for external vaginal itch. What are you waiting for?
This website is for informational purposes only and not to be considered as medical advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, prescribe, treat, or cure any medical condition.
