Causes of Vaginal Itching You Should Know

Vaginal itching is a common condition experienced by many women. The causes can vary, ranging from fungal, bacterial, or viral infections to exposure to chemicals, allergic reactions, or hormonal changes during menopause.

It is important to remember that scratching the itchy area should be avoided, as it can irritate the skin around the genital area.

In most cases, the itching is not dangerous and may subside within a few days. However, if the complaint is severe, does not improve, frequently recurs, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as abnormal discharge, it is best to consult a doctor for proper treatment.

Common Causes of Vaginal Itching

Many factors can trigger itching in the genital area. Some are mild, while others may require medical attention. Here are the common causes you need to know:

1. Bacterial infection

This condition occurs when the balance between good and harmful bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. Besides itching, it usually causes discharge that has a fishy smell or appears thin and greyish/white. This discharge can irritate the area and trigger itching.

This infection is most common in women after puberty and before menopause. The exact cause is still unknown.

2. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Some STIs, such as trichomoniasis, genital herpes, or chlamydia, can cause itching along with pain, sores, or abnormal vaginal discharge.

3. Certain skin conditions

Vulvar dermatitis and eczema are among the most common causes of vulvar itching and irritation. The vulvar skin may appear red and inflamed, or dry and scaly.

These conditions may be acute or last for a long period, especially if irritants repeatedly come into contact with the skin. Scratching can worsen the problem and lead to skin thickening, known as chronic lichen simplex.

4. Irritation or allergic reactions

The skin around the genital area is highly sensitive to chemical irritants such as soaps, deodorants, sanitary pads, tight clothing, and synthetic underwear.

All of these irritants can cause eczema or dermatitis in the genital area, leading to prolonged itching and burning.

Therefore, it is important to avoid contact between these products and the skin around the genitals.

5. Yeast infection

Most women experience a vaginal yeast infection, or candidiasis, at some point. This happens due to the overgrowth of Candida fungus in the vagina.

Normally, the vagina maintains a balance between good bacteria and yeast. The bacteria help prevent yeast from growing excessively.

However, when this balance is disrupted, yeast can grow rapidly and cause an infection.

Although usually easy to treat, yeast infections can still be very uncomfortable. Symptoms include itching or burning in the vagina, white or clear odorless discharge, and vaginal irritation.

6. Poor hygiene

Infrequent changing of underwear or sanitary pads can create an environment that supports the growth of fungi and bacteria.

7. Menopause

The drop in estrogen production at the end of the reproductive years can cause the vaginal walls to thin and dry.

This may lead to itching and irritation. Vaginal thinning can also affect some women who are breastfeeding.

How to Prevent Recurrent Vaginal Itching

Treatment of vaginal itching depends on the underlying cause. If the itching is due to contact with irritants, it is best to avoid these triggers to help relieve symptoms.

Wearing loose cotton underwear, avoiding scented soaps, and keeping the genital area clean and dry can also help prevent recurring itching.

When to See a Doctor

It is important to consult a doctor about vaginal itching if the itching lasts for more than a week and is severe enough to interfere with daily activities—especially if it is accompanied by symptoms such as:

• sores or blisters on the vulva
• pain, tenderness, or swelling in the genital area
• redness or other skin color changes
• difficulty urinating
• unusual vaginal discharge
• discomfort during sexual intercourse

References

Cleveland Clinic. Accessed in 2025. Genital Itching.

Medical News Today. Accessed in 2025. What causes vaginal itching?

WebMD. Accessed in 2025. Vaginal Itching and Burning