Burning and tingling in the intimate area. What can cause itching in the intimate area?

Itching in the intimate area is an extremely unpleasant phenomenon. A woman, faced with him, can no longer think about anything else, becomes restless and nervous. Itching occurs due to irritation of nerve endings, and the reasons can be completely different - from improper care and hygiene to chronic diseases. How to recognize them in time and immediately begin treatment? You will find these and many other questions in the article.

Itching in a woman’s intimate area: causes

Itching in the genital area often appears suddenly and thus worries the woman very much. Constant scratching only aggravates the problem, causing swelling and microtrauma on the delicate skin of the intimate area.

Factors causing discomfort may vary. Perhaps to eliminate them it will be enough to use a standard antiseptic, for example, Miramistin. But if the itching does not go away for quite a long time, and discharge is added to it, this is a good reason to consult a gynecologist.

The method of eliminating the problem depends on the characteristics of the symptoms. Here are the most common factors influencing the appearance of itching in the perineum:

Itching in the intimate area without odor

Itching and discomfort in the genital area in a woman is not always accompanied by other symptoms - a foul odor or suspicious discharge. But it still distracts you from everyday life and prevents you from focusing on solving important issues.

The reasons for this phenomenon can be external and internal. Factors influencing the occurrence of itching upon contact with something:

1. Insufficient hygiene measures. The vaginal mucosa is easily irritated and inflamed due to direct contact with secretions, feces and urine. In addition, sweat glands and folds are located in this area (especially in obese women); during the hot season, it is necessary to constantly wash the genitals with warm water using intimate hygiene products or chamomile decoction.
2. Shaving and depilation are real stress for delicate skin. Often, girls do not follow the rules for hair removal, shave dry skin or wax depilation. Microcracks, scratches and ingrown hairs appear in the intimate area, which irritates the nerve endings and causes unbearable itching and a desire to scratch the affected area.
3. Many women abuse wearing tight and uncomfortable underwear - thongs. Thin ropes rub and there is an additional threat of transferring bacteria from the anus to the vagina.
4. Excessive cleanliness can also cause itching; you should not wash the genitals with soap or gel more than twice a day, otherwise the protective film will be removed, and the natural acid-base balance of the vagina will be disrupted, it will peel, itch and itch.
5. Feminine hygiene products (tampons, pads) often contain fragrances, which becomes a factor in the occurrence of allergies.

Internal causes are directly related to the processes that occur in a woman’s body:

Itching and discharge in the intimate area

Almost all sexually transmitted infections are accompanied by itching, burning, discharge of various types and a foul odor.

Its important features:

• itching and burning;
• discharge yellow, white, brown, mixed with blood;
• pain and discomfort when urinating.

Chlamydia is a disease caused by the microorganism chlamydia, the most common infection transmitted during sexual intercourse.

Is different:

In the absence of proper treatment, chronic chlamydia leads to serious inflammatory processes and infertility.

Genital herpes is also transmitted during sexual intercourse; its causative agent is herpes types 1 and 2. It is relatively easy to identify it by the characteristic blistering formations throughout the intimate area; this is very important, since the consequence of an advanced infection is brain damage and blindness.

Other symptoms:

• inflamed, itchy genitals;
• pain and burning when going to the toilet and during sex;
• high temperature, general weakness.

Trichomoniasis (caused by Trichomonas vaginalis), unlike other STIs, does not have pronounced symptoms, but is often accompanied by:

How to treat itching in the intimate area

According to statistics, every third woman seeks help from a doctor with complaints of thrush symptoms. Usually this is itching and burning, thick white discharge, similar to curdled flakes, and the smell of sour milk.

Candidiasis is not a sexually transmitted disease; its presence is associated with the activity of a fungus that is always present in the vaginal microflora, however, it only makes itself felt when a woman’s immunity decreases under the influence of stress, taking antibiotics or a hormonal surge.

It usually begins suddenly, suddenly there is an unbearable itching in the perineum, a constant desire to scratch the affected area, and the itching intensifies at night. Then other signs appear - inflamed labia, redness, discomfort during sex. The body's defenses weaken at this time, it is easy to introduce a bacterial infection into the vagina, then the smell of rotten fish will be added to other symptoms.

All these signs are also typical for other diseases, including STIs, so you should not self-medicate, but immediately get a smear from a gynecologist.

Treatment is selected by the doctor individually, especially since it differs for men and women. For mild cases of the disease, it is enough to use local medications - creams, suppositories and vaginal tablets (Clotrimazole, Pimafucin, Miconazole). The course ranges from one to seven days.

Along with local treatment, tablets (Flucostat, Diflucan, Fluconazole) are prescribed, which should be taken once. In case of relapses, the regimen is selected for each individual case.

Itching in the intimate area during pregnancy

During this period, a woman experiences a powerful hormonal surge, the vaginal microflora changes, restructuring occurs in the body, which cannot but affect sensations and well-being.

The causes of itching during pregnancy can be the same as in normal conditions. It is worth carefully monitoring all changes so as not to miss a dangerous disease that will cause complications and additional risk to the life of the mother and child.

The emotional state of a woman in this position is very unstable; any trouble can cause nervous stress. Irritability, fear of childbirth, anxiety - all this can aggravate the condition of a pregnant woman and provoke the development of certain ailments, including itching in the intimate area.

To prevent the occurrence of itching and burning, even before pregnancy you need to conduct an examination and eliminate existing problems. Self-medication during this period can become fatal, because most drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy.

Relieve itching in the intimate area

As it turned out, there can be many causes of itching; only a doctor and appropriate tests will help establish an accurate diagnosis. However, it happens that there is no opportunity to contact a specialist, and the discomfort becomes unbearable. The following methods will help you relieve symptoms and provide first aid:

1. A solution of Chlorhexidine or Miramistin has antiseptic properties and relieves itching and inflammation in the intimate area. They must be used at least three times a day.
2. Vaginal suppositories Livarol are recommended by doctors as a means for the treatment and prevention of vaginitis, the course is at least 5 days.
3. Rectal suppositories Nystatin is an antifungal agent that can be used even before the cause of the disease is determined. The course lasts 5-10 days.
4. As an ambulance for itching and burning, use aloe; it should be crushed and the resulting mixture wrapped in a sterile bandage. This kind of tampon is placed in the vagina before bed and removed in the morning.
5. Chamomile decoction is a universal remedy for skin irritation and inflammation. It can be used to wash the genitals and use it as a douching solution.

Itching is not an “independent” ailment; it is only a reaction of the skin to various kinds of irritants. It can itch in different places, and the reasons for this can also be different. But if itching is observed in an intimate place, then this symptom should be given special attention. Most likely, such unpleasant sensations indicate problems in the woman’s body.

Dermatologists have carefully studied the problem and came to the conclusion that itching in the groin can be caused by one of the following reasons.

1. External causes or negative impact.
2. Infections and diseases that develop in the organs of the genitourinary system.
3. Secondary signs of some pathologies.
4. Hormonal disorders.
5. The reasons are mental or psychosomatic.

These groups do not have clear boundaries; moreover, each group includes several causes that can cause burning and itching.

Important information! If the discomfort lasts more than a week, then you should definitely go to the hospital, because itching can be a sign of a number of quite serious diseases.

Now let's look at each of the groups in more detail.

External causes of itching

First of all, a woman should think about whether the itching is caused by wearing synthetic underwear. The fact is that cheap synthetics are the most common cause of discomfort in the groin area.

This reason can be easily eliminated - you need to update your wardrobe by replacing all synthetics with cotton products.

But there are other negative factors that can cause itching.

Negligent attitude towards personal hygiene

A woman's genitals produce a secretion that accumulates in the groin in small quantities. There, the secretion comes into contact with sweat and dirt that has penetrated into the laundry, resulting in a favorable environment for bacteria. Itching in such cases occurs due to waste products of microorganisms.

Aggressive personal care products

Finally, the cause of the described phenomenon may be the use of aggressive washing agents that can cause an allergic reaction - soaps, shampoos, creams, etc.

How to treat?

You can eliminate unpleasant sensations by regular washing using non-aggressive hygiene products.

Incorrect use of tampons or pads

If these hygiene products are not changed in a timely manner, the blood accumulated on them will become an ideal nutrient solution for many harmful bacteria. You should also not use scented pads, as they can cause an allergic reaction.

How to treat?

Pads should be changed after at least four hours, tampons after two. During menstruation, you need to be especially careful when carrying out hygiene procedures.

Pediculosis pubis

The appearance of pubic lice leads not only to itching, but also to redness of the groin and the area around the anus. If the case is particularly advanced, then lice can “move” to the armpits and eyebrows, but these organisms never live in the hair on the head.

As a rule, lice are contracted sexually, but in some cases infection occurs through someone else's towel or underwear, when visiting public places (baths, swimming pools, solariums). Outside the human body, lice live for about four days, so you can catch the disease even just by sitting on a bench on which a person with lice had previously sat. The main danger of the disease is that a person, scratching the resulting rash, introduces an infection into the wounds, which can even cause eczema to develop.

Pediculosis - causes and treatment

How to treat?

Hypothermia/overheating

If the genitals are constantly overcooled or overheated, this can also cause itching.

Important information! To eliminate groin itching caused by external influences, you just need to eliminate the cause. In most cases this is very easy to do.

Diseases of the genitourinary system

Itching can be caused by pathology of the genital organs. Most of these diseases are accompanied by discharge, which, in turn, provokes itching. In addition, this can happen due to digestive problems.

So, itching in the groin can be caused by:

• vaginal discharge (observed with prolapse or erosion of the uterus, other diseases);
• dysbacteriosis (can be a symptom of many ailments);
• discharge caused by any inflammation;
• diarrhea;
• improper functioning of the genitourinary organs (skin irritated by urine).

How to treat?

If the cause of itching is one of the pathologies listed above, then the doctor should prescribe medications that will eliminate the underlying disease. Unpleasant symptoms are relieved with antipruritic creams and ointments.

Urogenital infections (STDs)

A common cause of itching. Each disease is accompanied by different symptoms and is caused by different pathogens.

Table. STDs that cause itching in the groin

How to treat?

Treatment of sexually transmitted infections should begin at the same time as your intimate partner. First, you should take all the necessary tests, after which the doctor will prescribe antibiotics or other means to eliminate the infection. Additionally, immunomodulatory agents, anti-allergy medications and vitamins may be prescribed. A few weeks after completion of therapy, all tests are repeated.

Diseases of other organs or systems

Itching in the intimate area is also caused by the consequences of other ailments; its appearance may indicate progression:

• diabetes;
• hormonal imbalances;
• cancer;
• lymphogranulomatosis;
• leukemia;
• anemia.

In this case, to eliminate the symptom, you must first cure the underlying disease.

Hormonal abnormalities

One of the features of the female body is that its hormonal levels fluctuate throughout life. Changes can occur in several situations, due to which the acidity in the vagina changes and, as a result, itching appears. Let's consider these situations.

Menstruation

There are two reasons for itching.

1. Discharge is an excellent habitat for bacteria.
2. The immune system, weakened during menstruation, cannot fully fight them.

As for treatment, it is not required; it is enough to just perform hygiene procedures on time.

Climax

The concentration of sex hormones decreases, causing the skin to become dry and nervous abnormalities occur (incontinence, tearfulness). As a result of all this, itching occurs, which can be eliminated by taking medications recommended during menopause.

During this period, immunity decreases and hormonal changes begin. To eliminate symptoms, a woman must first undergo an examination - this will help identify and eliminate the cause. Thanks to this, the health of not only the mother, but also the unborn baby will be preserved.

Itching in the intimate area of ​​women has bothered every representative of the fair sex at least once. This unpleasant symptom appears for various reasons. These may include safe factors: allergies or uncomfortable underwear. Discomfort goes away immediately after the factors are eliminated.

There are also serious reasons that cause burning. These include infections and inflammation of the reproductive organs or malfunctions of other body systems. To eliminate the unpleasant symptom, you need to seek help from a doctor.

Internal reasons

Pregnancy is one of the important stages in a woman’s life. But at this time the body’s immune system is most vulnerable, which leads to unpleasant sensations.

Hormonal changes cause the lining of the vulva to become loose. Hypothermia, uncomfortable and tight underwear, low-quality soap and other factors greatly irritate the skin and mucous membranes, which leads to the desire to constantly scratch the genitals.

Attention! If expectant mothers feel itching or discomfort in the perineum, then they should tell their gynecologist about it to exclude the possibility of infections.

Safe Reasons

Itching with irritated skin

A burning sensation in the intimate area indicates not only infectious diseases. There are a number of harmless and extraneous factors that provoke strong.

Among them are the following:

• An allergic reaction to intimate soap, body wash, or other body care products. If the soap is chosen incorrectly, it will cause severe irritation and change the balance of the vaginal microflora. All this leads not only to itching, but also to thrush. Washing powder or fabric softener can also be an allergen.
• Inadequate care for the intimate area. If a woman does not keep her genitals clean, then bacteria, smegma and other microorganisms accumulate in the vagina. They change the composition of the microflora, causing discomfort. Ladies should wash themselves at least 1-2 times a day. And during menstruation up to 4 times. But you shouldn’t overdo it with washing either. Excessive hygiene thins the delicate skin of the vagina. Dry mucous membranes cause burning.
• Wearing uncomfortable underwear made of synthetic materials. Ribbons rub delicate skin, and synthetics do not allow oxygen to pass through well, creating a greenhouse effect and disrupting air exchange.

Attention! Also, itching and burning are caused by mechanical damage to the intimate area, hypothermia and uncontrolled use of medications (hormones or antibiotics).

How to treat

Initially, you should go to an appointment with a gynecologist. He will give directions for tests and, having received the results, make a diagnosis.

Therapy depends on each specific disease and what microorganism caused the discomfort:

1. If microflora damage is caused by fungi, it is necessary to use antifungal drugs. These include both capsules for oral administration (Fluconazole or Itraconazole) and local agents. These include vaginal suppositories: Diflucan, Flucostat. Suppositories are inserted deep into the vagina before bed. The duration and dosage of medications is prescribed by the attending physician. Pimafucin cream also helps relieve swelling and redness.
2. Most sexually transmitted diseases are caused by bacteria. They are sensitive to antibiotics. Most often, drugs of the penicillin, cephalosporin or macrolide series are used.
3. For viral infections, such as herpes, complex treatment is prescribed. The main ones are antiviral drugs (Acyclovir). It is also necessary to take a course of vitamins and immunomodulators.
4. If you are stressed, you should take calming drops. If the itching is caused by age-related changes, then hormonal agents or local ointments will help.
5. If the patient has diabetes mellitus, then it is necessary to treat the underlying disease. And all discomfort in the vagina will pass over time.

Is it possible to treat at home?

Traditional methods will help relieve inflammation and severe itching in the perineum. But they can be used after consultation with a doctor and exclusively as additional therapy.

The most common treatment methods include:

• Calendula baths - pour two large spoons of dry herbs with a glass of water and boil over low heat for five minutes. Then cool and strain the broth. Dilute it in five liters of warm water. Take a bath for 15 minutes. Wash your genitals with clean water first. The course of treatment consists of 10 procedures.
• Take a liter of boiled water, cooled to room temperature. Dilute 5 grams of baking soda and 10 drops of iodine in it. Do douching twice a day for 10 days. If after the first procedure you feel discomfort and the itching intensifies, then stop douching.
• Prepare a few aloe leaves, trim the thorns and grind the pulp into a paste. Dip a sterile swab in it, then wrap it twice with a bandage. Before going to bed, insert a tampon into your vagina (swim first) and put on cotton underwear. In the morning, take out the tampon and wash yourself. Treatment can be repeated for five days. A repeat course is allowed after two months.

Prevention

There are a number of measures that help avoid the unpleasant consequences of microflora disturbances. Regular adherence to the rules allows you to minimize the risk of burning.

Among them:

• wearing underwear made of cotton or linen. If the panties are made of synthetics, then the gusset must be made of natural fabrics;
• regular adherence to personal hygiene rules;
• proper nutrition, in which priority is given to proteins, fresh fruits, vegetables and unsaturated fats. Simple carbohydrates (sweets, bread) should be minimized;
• exclusion of casual sex. If one regular partner is missing, then barrier contraception must be used;
• regular scheduled examination by a gynecologist.

Conclusion

Discomfort in the intimate area brings inconvenience to many women. It significantly worsens the quality of life. Many ladies are embarrassed by this problem and try to solve it on their own or with popular advice.

A burning sensation can be caused by various reasons, so you should consult a doctor and get tested to diagnose the disease. The gynecologist will select the right therapy, explain how to relieve itching and cope with the disease.

The habitual way of life of a modern woman is always full of affairs and worries. But sometimes illnesses happen, and for various reasons a woman can feel very unpleasant symptoms in the intimate area, and this leads to a lot of problems and can completely change her usual way of life.

The reasons for this delicate and unpleasant phenomenon are manifold. From ordinary dysbacteriosis to severe infectious diseases. It is important to identify the causes of discomfort in a timely manner and carry out the necessary treatment.
Today we will talk about solving a delicate problem that can cause itching in the intimate area in women, and we will find out the causes of this phenomenon.

It will also be very important to understand how to treat itching and burning in an intimate place in women effectively and safely.

Causes of itching of infectious origin

Among all the problems that can await a woman with itching or pain in the groin area, several main reasons can be identified:

• diseases caused by infectious agents;
• diseases of the endocrine system;
• diseases of other etiology.

Often these reasons are closely related to each other or follow from one another. In all cases, itching accompanies the inflammatory process. An irritating factor acts on the integumentary epithelium of the skin or mucous membrane, causing a chain reaction of the body, which is aimed at destroying the cause or limiting the focus.

Let's get acquainted with the main reasons according to the severity of the course and the risk of complications.

Sexually transmitted infections are a large group of infections that are sexually transmitted. According to various sources, these infections are quite widespread both in the CIS countries and abroad.

Chlamydia A disease caused by chlamydia. The most common sexually transmitted disease among all sexually transmitted diseases. It is more common in women and tends to become chronic. According to various sources, more than one billion people around the world are infected with chlamydia. Penetrating into the female body, chlamydia can be asymptomatic in 67% of women.

Among the signs, a sick woman may feel itching and burning in the intimate area, most often when urinating. Discharge with a yellowish tint and odor, pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen are also characteristic.

But the insidiousness of chlamydia is that a woman may not feel any symptoms, and the disease has already become chronic. In this case, a special laboratory analysis can identify the pathogen. Chlamydia in an advanced, untreated state can lead to infertility, the risk of ectopic pregnancy, and intrauterine infection of the fetus.

Trichomoniasis A disease that is not inferior to the previous disease in terms of prevalence among the population. The causative agent of this disease is Trichomonas vaginalis. According to the World Health Organization, about ten percent of people on earth are infected or suffer from trichomoniasis. The danger with this disease is, first of all, the risk of women developing infertility in the future and the abundance of pathological conditions during pregnancy.

Infection occurs through sexual contact and appears approximately 1-4 weeks after contact with a patient or carrier. In women, it manifests itself in the form of copious, yellow, foamy discharge with a specific odor. There are also symptoms such as itching, burning and pain, usually after urination. The external genitalia are swollen, hyperemic, macerations and foci of secondary suppuration easily appear. This provokes pain during sex.

Gonorrhea is caused by a bacterium called gonococcus. Once in the female body, it manifests itself as acute gonorrheal urethritis. Symptoms of the disease include burning and tickling in the distal urethra. Frequent urination is accompanied by pain. The discharge is purulent. Some women have no symptoms, but this does not mean that infection has not occurred.

The inflammatory process rises. In women, the inner lining of the uterus is affected in the form of endometritis, the fallopian tubes and ovaries in the form of salpingo-ovoritis. The urinary organs are affected in the form of urethritis and cystitis. The process becomes chronic and in the future increases the risk of developing infertility and adhesive disease of the pelvic organs.

Condylomas These unpleasant formations on the external genitalia occur as a result of infection with the human papillomavirus. In some women, the presence of warts is accompanied by discomfort in the area of ​​the vaginal opening and around the anal canal. It should be remembered that it is the human papillomavirus that has been proven to cause cervical cancer.

Genital herpes The herpes virus is present in the body of many people. For some, the disease manifests itself on the lips, usually after hypothermia. In other words, the virus is suppressed by the body’s immune system. When stress occurs or other diseases lower the body's immune defense, the herpes virus appears on the skin.

Genital herpes appears due to contact with a sick person or carrier. The woman begins to feel itching and burning in the intimate area. Then bubbles filled with liquid appear. In addition to the above symptoms, women are concerned about pain and redness. The infection, under favorable conditions, can penetrate the body and affect the reproductive organs.

Mycoplasmosis and ureaplasmosis This disease occurs in both men and women. The main symptom is pain and an unpleasant burning sensation in the urethra. Women become infected during sexual intercourse and due to the proximity of the vagina and urethra, the first unpleasant manifestations are felt in the urethra. The incubation period lasts ten days.

Women suffer from these ailments more than men. Mycoplasma affects the vagina, cervical canal and cervix. But more serious conditions can arise if a woman falls ill during pregnancy. Even if there are no active manifestations of the disease, pathology of the placenta may develop and, as a result, failure to carry the fetus to term. The chronic form causes secondary infertility.

As for ureaplasma, doctors and microbiologists cannot decide whether ureaplasma is a conditionally pathogenic microflora or whether it colonizes the mucous membrane after contact with a sick person. It is a small defective bacterium without a cell wall. The uniqueness of ureaplasma is that they cannot live and function without urea. Urea is a constituent chemical compound of urine. The clinical manifestation is similar to mycoplasma.

During the illness, burning, itching and rarely pain during urination appear. But the insidious thing is that the disease proceeds unnoticed and sometimes secretly, but, nevertheless, affects the female reproductive system. This entails problems with conception and further pregnancy.

Candidiasis - or thrush A disease caused by fungi of the genus Candida and affecting the mucous membrane of the female genital organs, and sometimes internal organs.

This disease is exclusively female, although men can contribute to its transmission. Fungi of the genus Candida live on the mucous membrane without damaging it, but under certain conditions they begin to multiply excessively and cause symptoms of candidiasis.

Conditions for the development of the disease:

• decreased immunity;
• changes in hormonal levels;
• change in vaginal acidity.

Yeast-like fungi affect not only the external genital organs, but also the internal genital organs and intestines. In severe cases, fungi affect the oral cavity, esophagus, and bladder.

Normally, the vagina has an acidic environment, which is what stops candida from multiplying. When these factors combine, a disease occurs. Also, normally in the vagina there is a mutually beneficial relationship between fungi, viruses, special bacteria Gardnerella vaginalis and lactobacilli.

When the balance in this peaceful microscopic kingdom is disturbed, problems arise. The main regulator is lactobacilli. They deprive Candida fungi of food. The main symptoms of thrush are thick, whitish vaginal discharge. Severe itching and burning. The mucous membrane of the vulva and vagina is bright red and bleeds easily. Pain may be present during urination and during sexual intercourse.

Bacterial vaginitis This pathological condition of the vaginal mucosa, as in the case of thrush, is caused by a violation of the symbiosis between opportunistic bacteria and lactobacilli. Symptoms include itching, burning and discharge. The color of the discharge varies from white to yellow-green.

The unpleasant smell of “raw fish” remains a specific symptom. This condition causes a woman a lot of trouble and there remains a risk of complications. Any inflammatory process in the vagina can lead to an ascending infection. Bacterial vaginitis is especially dangerous during pregnancy, as a special source of infection for the fetus.

Phthiriasis This is an infestation of pubic lice. The disease is extremely unpleasant and is associated with poor hygiene. But you can become infected by using shared hygiene items and towels. The traditional sexual route is not in last place in terms of methods of infection.

Causes of non-infectious itching

Allergic reaction to male ejaulant. In rare cases, a woman may experience a reaction if a man's seminal fluid enters the vagina. Manifests itself as a normal allergy in the form of redness , swelling and burning sensation.

Itching is also a frequent companion to allergies. Particular concern should be expressed if such a reaction occurs between a husband and wife who want to have children. This may occur if a man has consumed unusual foods or medications.

The above problems await young women of reproductive age.

But there is a special category of pathologies that a woman may have during the premenopausal period or during menopause. A woman's hormonal background changes. Some types of hormones are replaced by others, but under the influence of different factors, disruptions in the ratio of hormones occur, then the following conditions arise.

Kraurosis This is a formidable precancerous disease of the external genitalia of a woman. Its essence lies in the degenerative processes of the stratified squamous epithelium of the skin and mucous membrane with the subsequent development of atrophy. The reasons are not entirely known; age-related estrogen deficiency plays an important role.

A woman complains of severe dry skin of the external genital organs in the form of itching, discomfort and burning. Over time and the progression of the disease, soft tissues begin to undergo changes. The skin becomes thinner, easily injured and macerated. The labia are smoothed out and the entrance to the vagina can become critically narrowed. The process may eventually spread to the perineum. Diagnosis is made based on microscopic examination of a skin biopsy.

Dystrophic changes in the mucosa Does not apply to a precancerous condition of the previous cause. A woman during menopause produces little lubrication, so a woman may experience some discomfort and even itching in the intimate area. There are no changes visible to the naked eye or under a microscope on the skin and mucous membranes; it’s just that with age a lack of hormones occurs.

Malignant neoplasms E This is a large group of diseases that are accompanied not only by itching, but also by a number of other manifestations. Neoplasms can affect the vulva and vagina, as well as the cervix and the uterus itself.

Fistula tracts Narrow pathological tracts in soft tissues, interconnecting in some cases the vagina and rectum, vagina and urinary organs. The reasons are varied, mainly surgical operations, cesarean section, and trauma. In addition to discomfort, they are accompanied by inflammation.

The next group of causes of itching in the intimate area does not belong to any diseases, but is not inferior to them in frequency of occurrence among women.

Hygiene Improper hair removal in intimate areas. If this procedure is performed at home using a razor and foam, then some mistakes can cause burning and pain in the labia area.

Shaving against the hair growth with a not very sharp razor, ingrown hairs, skin microtraumas and their suppuration. Improper use of shaving products and after shaving. Repetition of such mistakes provokes irritation, inflammation and maceration of delicate skin.

Personal hygiene products in the form of panty liners and pads for use during menstruation. Manufacturers have filled supermarket shelves with a huge number of sanitary pads for every taste.

But sometimes, in the pursuit of cheapness, the quality of this product seriously suffers. Low quality materials have the ability to cause allergies. If this happens, you should immediately stop using this brand of product and consult a doctor.

Insufficient hygiene. For various reasons, an insufficient number of water treatments per day can cause burning and itching; in addition, there is a high risk of developing pathological conditions such as thrush and bacterial vaginitis.

Water procedures are especially relevant in summer. During this period, excessive sweating provokes the appearance of chafing and inflammation in the intimate area. Regularly changing pads and tampons, as well as using wet wipes for intimate care, will help cope with this problem.

Diseases of the digestive tract These include systemic intestinal diseases associated with impaired bowel movements. Intestinal dysbiosis can lead to thrush. Chronic and acute hemorrhoids, chronic anal fissures, fistulas, epithelial coccygeal ducts.

These are diseases that are treated by a surgeon-proctologist. All of them bring suffering to a person and are manifested by pain, bleeding and itching in the perineal area.

Underwear The poor quality of the fabric from which underwear is made causes itching and irritation. Synthetic fabrics do not absorb sweat, and natural vaginal discharge thereby contributes to the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria.

In addition, the greenhouse effect plays an important role here, when an increased temperature is created in the intimate area. Narrow, uncomfortable styles of underwear injure the skin and mucous membranes.

Soaps and hygiene gels - allergies often manifest themselves to the chemical components of shower gels, soaps, lotions and deodorants. Pads, tampons, and toilet paper can also act as allergens.

Contraceptives The most common type of protection is a condom. However, the material from which these things are made causes an immediate reaction in some women, manifested by itching and burning.

Lubricants, spermicides, diaphragms - all of these can cause unwanted reactions. The undesirable effect occurs directly during the use of a condom or immediately after sexual intercourse.

Diets Passion for diets in which one type of product is in the lead and a lack of balanced nutrition reduces the amount of vitamins consumed. This adversely affects the immune system. Vitamins of group A are directly involved in the regeneration of the skin epithelium and mucous membranes. A lack of vitamins in the diet causes a disruption in the structure of the integumentary layer, resulting in itching and burning.

Senile itching Very often the cause of itching is age-related changes, in this case it can be recommended to take sedatives, tranquilizers that improve liver function, take vitamins A and E. Soften the skin with good creams. In this case, Ovestin suppositories are prescribed.

Risk factors

There are several body conditions that can contribute to the development of almost all of these problems in the intimate area.

1. Diabetes mellitus is a serious metabolic disease with impaired absorption of carbohydrates. In this case, local immunity is impaired. In diabetes, bacterial infections, mainly of coccal etiology, develop faster, causing complications . Also, itching and burning in the intimate area can be an immediate symptom of diabetes.
2. Allergic reactions are a general sessibility of the body to an allergen, which provokes the appearance of discomfort in the perineal area.
3. Overwork syndrome is a long-term stressful situation that causes emotional tension and fatigue, and reduces immunity. But in addition to problems with the immune system, depression, increased anxiety and restlessness can cause paresthesia, including in the genital area. Itching in various parts of the body is often a symptom of mental disorders.
4. Diseases of the thyroid gland, insufficiency of liver and kidney function, anemia of various origins. All these pathological conditions not only change the normal functioning of the entire body, but also directly affect the condition of the skin and mucous membranes.

Itching in the intimate area during pregnancy

Normally, a woman expecting a baby should not experience itching or burning. Sharp changes in hormonal levels provoke the proliferation of fungi of the genus Candida and symbiotic bacteria. Therefore, if you experience unpleasant sensations, you should not wait for self-healing, but you should urgently consult your doctor.

The second factor is the reduced immunity of the poor mother. According to statistics, up to 85% of pregnant women suffer from candidiasis. When the placenta forms at the beginning of the second trimester, there will be more discharge. It is necessary to monitor the color, consistency and smell of these secretions. In case of an unpleasant odor, also contact a specialist. The expectant mother must take special care to maintain personal hygiene; this is very important for her health and the health of the baby.

What to do if itching occurs

Contact a gynecologist. The doctor will be able to professionally evaluate the emerging changes in the skin and mucous membranes. Assess the type of disease and stage. To confirm, he will order the necessary laboratory tests:

1. A vaginal smear allows you to assess the state of the microflora and identify the pathogen.
2. Cytological examination is an assessment of not only the presence or absence of microorganisms, but also the condition of the integumentary epithelial cells.
3. Biopsy is a more in-depth analysis with the study of cells of the integumentary epithelium of the skin and mucous membranes with the submucosal layer. This diagnostic method is used to diagnose neoplasms.
4. General tests - clinical analysis of blood and urine, as well as biochemical analysis to identify dysfunction of the liver and kidneys.
5. Detection of hormone levels – reproductive and thyroid hormones.
6. PCR is a type of analysis for the presence of a specific pathogen in a smear.

Treatment of itching in the intimate area in women

If the cause of itching in the intimate area is not dangerous bacteria that can cause serious complications and require long-term hospital treatment, then these problems can be eliminated using a few simple rules:

1. Keep your genitals perfectly clean. Carry out water procedures at least three times a day. If this is not possible due to circumstances, then use wet wipes.
2. Replace hygiene products that cause irritation. Choose panty liners and tampons with extreme caution, and do not buy low-grade, cheap items. Replace hygiene products at least every two hours.
3. Wear underwear made of cotton fabric. Choose a comfortable style in the right size.
4. Make baths with antibacterial medicinal herbs.
5. If your doctor does not prohibit it, then douche with antiseptic substances for the skin and mucous membranes.
6. Use skin soothing products after shaving.
7. Avoid lack of vitamins and microelements in your food. Choose diets that comply with all the principles of rational nutrition.
8. Maintain good sexual hygiene.

We treat itching of the intimate area at home with folk remedies

Simple and effective folk methods can relieve the unpleasant sensations of burning and itching in the intimate area in women.

Before you start using traditional methods, you must establish the exact cause of the itching and begin treatment prescribed by your doctor. Many folk remedies complement basic drug therapy well and are effective in relieving itching.

In a liter of boiling water, dilute one teaspoon of soda, cool so that the solution is pleasantly warm. The resulting solution should be used to douche the vagina twice a day - morning and evening. This method will relieve itching, but it will not get rid of the causative agent of the unpleasant condition.

Aloe pulp

To treat, you need to grind the aloe leaves in a meat grinder and soak cotton swabs in the resulting pulp. After
douching, in order for the vaginal mucosa to heal, you need to insert tampons soaked in aloe juice at night.

Iodine solution with added salt

For douching, you need to prepare a solution in one liter of boiled water. Add soda to the water - 1 teaspoon, salt - 1 teaspoon and iodine - 10 drops. You need to douche with the resulting medicinal solution in the morning and evening. This procedure has a combined effect of medicinal substances on the vaginal mucosa: washing out fungi, drying and disinfection.

Decoctions and infusions of chamomile and calendula

To prepare a healing decoction, add 2 tablespoons of chamomile to 200 milliliters of water and boil. After this, remove from the heat and leave for 20 minutes. We use this decoction for douching in the morning and evening.

In infusions of medicinal herbs calendula and chamomile, it is very good to take sitz baths; you can also add a little sea salt to these baths. This simple procedure is very helpful in dealing with itching. After taking a bath, you need to dry your genitals well.

Basil decoction

Pour a tablespoon of basil into two glasses of water and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes. Infuse the resulting decoction for 30 minutes, filter and take orally for treatment. You need to drink 100 milliliters four times a day. This remedy helps the body cope well with various types of infections.

Yogurt and dairy products

To restore and normalize the vaginal mucosa, it is necessary to eat various fermented milk products, such as yogurt, kefir, as they contain beneficial bacteria. It is very important to eat fermented milk products while taking antibiotics. In addition to yogurt, it is useful to take various supplements, such as acidophilus or lactobacilli.

Drug treatment

To effectively treat itching in an intimate place in women, folk remedies are used in complex therapy with mediants; this approach gives excellent results and allows one to cope well with the disease.

Ointments

1. Boromenthol is recommended when a similar symptom, namely itching, occurs during menopause, with age-related changes, kidney disease, dermatitis, diabetes mellitus and cholestasis.
2. Nezulin - this ointment has good antimicrobial and antiseptic properties.
3. Gistan - has a good antiallergic and antifungal effect.
4. Fenistil - this ointment relieves allergic symptoms.

Pills

Treatment with tablets is prescribed in the hospital based on the reasons that caused the discomfort. For the following diseases, you need to take the following medications:

• Trichopolum - for trichomoniasis;
• Suprastin, Claritin - for allergic reactions;
• Herpevir, Acyclovir - for herpes;
• Metronidazole - for gardnarella.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it should be recalled that women’s health directly depends on a woman’s common sense and compliance with simple rules of personal hygiene. The main function of women is to bear and give birth to healthy offspring. Itching in the intimate area in women and the causes of its occurrence can cause serious harm to the body. Sometimes, due to health problems, women remain infertile, this can poison life forever and destroy a marriage.

If a sensitive problem arises, immediately consult a doctor who will prescribe effective and safe treatment for you.

A specific skin reaction in which it itches, burns and becomes irritated is called itching. It can occur on any part of the body, but itching and burning in the genital area requires the most attention, since such a symptom can also signal a serious genital disease.

Both men and women are susceptible to itching, but the fair half has many more reasons for the occurrence of these sensations, and therefore encounters itching somewhat more often than men.

Causes of itching and burning

Most often, itching and burning are a symptom that hides another disease. This is the root cause that needs to be treated. All reasons can be divided into several groups.

First group of reasons– local external influences. Among these the most often mentioned are:

• infections,
• pollution, poor personal hygiene,
• pediculosis, for example,
• inability to carry out personal procedures for a long time,
• improper change of tampons or panty liners (it is not recommended to use a tampon or pads for more than two hours),
• persistent change in temperature (overheating or vice versa, hypothermia),
• wearing underwear made of synthetic materials, which creates a kind of “greenhouse” effect, since air access is limited,
• use of scented panty liners,
• the use of medications (or topical creams, ointments, sprays) that cause allergic reactions,
• use of detergents that are aggressive to the skin.

Often itching can be accompanied by various discharges in color and consistency, for example, read about this by following the links.

Discharge can occur not only in women, but also in men - read.

Second group - reasons hidden in pathologies of the genital organs. It could be:

• erosion of the cervix, and discharge during erosion creates sensations of itching and burning,
• urine irritation
• inflammatory processes of any stage.

It is especially worth noting problems with the digestive organs. Unbalanced diet, poisoning, presence of candida fungus, etc. processes become the cause of dysbiosis, which undoubtedly affects the vaginal microflora.

Most often, dysbiosis occurs after childbirth, after the appearance of the first menstruation, and after taking antibiotics. Women of all ages are susceptible to it, as well as men who get the disease from their sexual partners.

Third group– diseases of other systems and organs. For example, itching and burning may be symptoms of:

• diabetes mellitus,
• anemia,
• lymphogranulomatosis,
• leukemia,
• deviations from the hormonal system,
• cancerous tumors.

Fourth group– mental component. Stress of various kinds and origins is a powerful factor that can cause itching and burning. Usually this factor plays a leading role in women, since their psyche is less stable in the face of nervous breakdowns, depression, and emotional swings.

• Itching due to hormonal imbalance. Speaking about hormonal fluctuations, it is worth noting that in women, hormonal levels are subject to significant fluctuations throughout life - this is due to the natural processes that occur in the female body. A woman experiences the most frequent fluctuations in hormones in connection with the menstrual cycle, so this jump occurs every month. Also, serious hormonal changes occur during pregnancy, after childbirth, and during menopause. At this time, the mucous membrane of the genital organs changes somewhat in terms of acidity. This leads to the activation of pathogenic microorganisms and the appearance of unpleasant sensations in the genital area.
• Itching during menstruation. During menstruation, spotting appears, which is an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. In addition, at this time it is more difficult for the female body to resist danger, since the immune system is weakened. If sanitary pads are not changed in a timely manner, this can lead to burning and itching. The ideal time for tampons is 2 hours, then they need to be changed, pads should be changed after 4 hours.
• Itching during pregnancy. Burning and itching in the genital area during pregnancy occurs quite often. This is primarily caused by decreased immunity and changes in hormonal levels. As a result, pathogenic bacteria are activated, causing discomfort. In order to eliminate the symptoms, a pregnant woman needs to see a doctor who will conduct a series of tests and identify the exact cause of the itching. This will help not only to treat the disease in a timely and correct manner, but also to preserve the life and health of the unborn baby.
• Itching after childbirth. With the end of pregnancy and childbirth, the female body will return to its normal state, which means that the hormonal background will change again. In addition, postpartum discharge does not at all contribute to a favorable situation in the genital area. Overcoming postpartum itching is quite easy, since there are a number of medications that can be taken during lactation.
• Itching during menopause. In women over 50 years of age, the level of sex hormones noticeably decreases. This indicates the onset of menopause and the restructuring of the entire hormonal background. Against the background of such changes, a woman develops vaginal dryness, the skin in the thighs and labia becomes drier. The woman becomes irritable, excessively whiny, and her mood changes dramatically. All these factors - both physiological and psychological - contribute to the appearance of itching and burning of the genitals. Of course, this condition does not occur in all women during the postmenstrual period, but those who experience itching experience significant discomfort from it. To eliminate these symptoms, it is enough to take medications prescribed by your doctor and follow the rules of personal hygiene. (See article for more details)
• Itching and burning with athlete's foot. The causes of this disease are failure to comply with personal hygiene rules and the use of objects shared with a sick person, for example, shared washcloths, underwear, oilcloths. There is a high risk of infection in baths, showers, saunas and swimming pools. Also, athlete's foot can be caused by excessive sweating, overheating, wearing tight synthetic underwear, and high environmental humidity. Most often, athlete's foot affects men. Externally, the disease manifests itself in the form of pink spots, small in size, which contain an element of inflammation in the center. Soon the inflammation decreases and disappears, but the edges of the spots increase and you can notice quite large (up to ten centimeters in diameter) circles left after the inflammation. The borders of these circles are somewhat swollen, and bubbles form along the edges. Such circles are located mainly on the inner thighs, in the area of ​​the scrotum, buttocks, and groin.

Diagnosis of burning and itching

It will not be difficult for a doctor to make a diagnosis during a visual examination. There is noticeable redness on the skin, most often it is dry, scratches and abrasions are visible. In more severe cases, there may be weeping wounds on the surface of the skin if scratching occurs constantly and with great force. If the cause of the itching is an infectious disease, then vaginal discharge will be noticeable, the skin around is constantly moist, and there may be an unpleasant odor. The labia are slightly enlarged in appearance, swollen, and their color is more intense than normal.

In any case, the doctor does tests to determine the presence or absence of genital infections. Most often, candida, gardnerella, trichomonas, herpes, etc. are found in smears. With candidiasis, women experience cheesy discharge, swelling of the labia, burning and itching, pain during urination and sexual intercourse. The same sensations are present in men.

Treatment of itching

Usually, to treat itching and burning, it is enough to eliminate the factor that caused these symptoms. Change tight synthetic underwear to natural fabrics, take a shared shower on time, perform genital hygiene every day (or better twice - morning and evening), promptly change sanitary pads during menstruation and refuse panty liners.

• If the cause of itching and burning is a fungus, then it is necessary for both partners to take medications prescribed by the doctor. Today, the forms of such drugs are different (creams, suppositories, ointments, tablets, capsules), which makes them much easier to take and promotes a speedy recovery. Men are prescribed local therapy - a cream based on Clotrimazole, which is applied to the head of the penis twice a day for a week. In some cases, a Fluconazole tablet is used (one-time use). A similar disease in women is somewhat more difficult to treat, but even here a positive result is achieved quickly. Treatment in women is based on local exposure and oral administration of drugs, strengthening the immune system. Clotrimazole, Pimafucin, Miconazole (vaginal suppositories) are usually prescribed. For mild cases, Fluconazole is taken orally once. After completion of treatment, it is necessary to take medications aimed at restoring the vaginal microflora.
• If itching and burning are caused by gardnerellosis(one of the most common infections), then such drugs as Clindamycin, Klion-D, Tinidazole, Metronidazole are indicated here. The course of treatment is ten days. As practice shows, the best effect is obtained by taking Metronidazole tablets orally. Treatment of gardnerellosis should be carried out by both partners, since in men the pathogen is often present, but does not manifest itself for a long time.
• For genital herpes Itching and burning appear most often during an exacerbation, when the patient’s immunity is weakened. In order to get rid of symptoms, it is necessary to cure the underlying disease and constantly strengthen the immune system.
• Treatment of athlete's foot is based on relieving the severity of the phenomenon - during this period lotions with resorcinol or silver nitrate are applied. Ointments such as Mikozolon or Triderm are also used topically. In parallel, patients are prescribed antihistamines such as Suprastin or Claritin orally. After the blisters disappear, antifungal ointments Mycoseptin, Lamisil, Clotrimazole or Nizoral are prescribed locally.
• Treatment of itching based on the treatment of the underlying disease. Most often, women suffer from it, but their partners also become infected, but the course of this disease in men is mild (itching and burning appear). The disease is successfully treated with Trichopolum twice a day for seven days. If the problem does not disappear (this happens in the chronic form), the course of treatment is extended or other drugs are added.
• If itching and burning in the genital area are caused by scabies or pubic lice, then upon examination you can notice the passages of a scabies mite or identify a pubic louse. In this case, treatment involves the use of special drugs that are applied topically for up to one week, but only a doctor should prescribe these drugs. In parallel with local treatment, it is necessary to completely disinfect all clothing and change personal hygiene items (washcloths, razors, sponges, towels) to avoid re-infection.
• To a large extent, doctors have to deal with the treatment of autoimmune causes of itching and burning. Its essence is that one’s own cells begin to be perceived as foreign, which causes allergic reactions such as dermatitis. These conditions are accompanied by constant unbearable itching in a certain area. Treatment consists of the use of antihistamines that suppress autoimmune processes. Special ointments are prescribed locally to relieve inflammation and irritation. The most effective local preparation is Dermovate ointment, which does not leave marks on clothing and can be used even in children. With its help, itching and burning subsides very quickly, and scratches heal in a short time.